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OLNEY'S 


UNITED    STATES, 


ROUGHT     DOWN      TO 


1851. 


K^^^^^:^^:^^^^ 


n^«^s^2^ 


:^:^:(J\ 


HISTORY 


UNITED    STATES, 


FOU    TKE    USE    OP 


SCHOOLS  AND   ACADEMIES. 


By   J.    OLNEY,    A.    M. 

Atn-HOR  OF  THE  FAMILY   BOOK   OF    BISTORT,  A  GKOGRAPHY  AND   ATLAS,  ETC. 


VISED     AND     IMPROVED     EDITION.  l'^* 


NEW    HAVEN: 

PUBLISHED   BY   DURRIE   &   PECK. 

1  851. 


Entered,  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1851,  by  J.  OLNEY,  in  the  Clerk's 
Office  of  the  District  Court  of  Connecticut 


OS'V^ 


PREFACE 

TO 

THE  REVISED   EDITION. 


The  History  of  the  United  States  is  as  deeply  interesting  as  it  is  eminently 
instructive.  But  little  more  than  two  centuries  ago,  our  vast  territory  was  an  unexplored 
■wilderness,  whose  only  inhabitants  were  wild  beasts  and  wandering  savages.  We  see  a 
few  feeble  and  scattered  Colonies  planted  in  the  New  World,  like  seed  in  an  untried  soil, 
slowly  putting  forth  the  green  leaves  of  patient  hojie,  the  blossoms  of  growing  promise, 
and,  at  last,  the  rich  and  abundant  fruits  of  a  Liberty  and  Prosperity  without  parallel  in 
the  history  of  the  world.  We  see  our  heroic  fathers  nurturing  these  germs  of  a  new  and 
free  Empire,  through  long  years  of  toil  and  danger,  contending  with  their  savage  fofes, 
the  poverty  and  hardship  of  their  lot,  and  the  selfish  and  tyrannical  government  of  their 
own  Father  Land.  In  the  long  and  bloody  struggle  for  National  Independence,  we  honor 
that  virtue  and  heroism  which  has  won  the  highest  place  in  the  annals  of  fame.  In  the 
establishment  of  our  National  Government,  with  its  Constitution  and  Laws,  we  admire 
the  keen  foresight  and  sound  wisdom  of  the  patriots  of  the  Revolution,  who  laid  so 
deep  and  strong  the  foundations  of  our  mighty  and  glorious  Republic  And  we  survey 
with  wonder  and  joy,  that  progress  which  has  turned  our  wild  forests  into  opulent  cities — 
which  has  made  our  lakes,  rivers,  and  coasts,  the  channels  of  a  mighty  commerce — 
which  has  startled  our  wildest  mountains  and  most  inaccessible  valleys  with  the  shriek 
of  the  steam-car,  and  replaced  the  insignificance  and  poverty  of  our  early  Colonies  by  a 
general  wealth  and  prosperity,  which  has  challenged  the  admiration  of  the  world. 

But  still  more  cheering  and  important  is  the  lesson  taught  us  by  the  yet  greater  contrast 
between  the  Old  World,  as  it  was,  and  the  New  World,  as  it  is.  Looking  back  from 
our  present  position  in  the  progress  of  the  race,  to  that  occupied  by  the  most  free  and 
enlightened  nations  at  the  time  of  the  first  discoveries  in  America,  we  shall  see  that  the 
settlement  of  the  United  States  opened  a  new  era  in  the  history  of  man — that  it  was  the 
dawn  of  a  new  civilization,  higher  and  more  perfect  than  had  yet  been  known.  This 
will  be  still  more  evident,  if  we  trace  the  geographical  march  of  the  race  from  its  original 
locality,  to  this  Western  World.  Asia,  rich  in  all  the  treasures  of  physical  nature,  was 
the  birth-place  of  man,  the  cradle  of  his  infancy,  and  the  school  of  his  childhood.  He 
was  there  trained  to  know  no  bond  but  that  of  tyrannical  authority,  and  no  relation  but 
that  between  a  solitary  desjjot  and  a  nation  of  slaves.  The  soul's  aspirations  were 
crushed  ;  and,  without  thought,  there  was  no  progress.  But,  as  time  passed  on,  necessitj', 
or  the  desire  of  change,  prompted  those  expeditions  and  colonies  with  which  began  the 
history  and  progress  of  Civil  Government.  Descending  from  the  highlands  of  Asia, 
man  proceeded  from  station  to  station,  toward  Europe.  Each  step  was  marked  by  a 
new  and  better  civilization,  and  a  higher  range  of  thought.  Entering  Europe,  he  found 
a  better  field  for  his  growing  powers.  Its  coasts,  indented  with  seas,  gulfs,  and  bays, 
welcomed  his  early  and  timid  commerce  ;  and  its  fertile  soil  and  genial  climate  awak- 
ened his  powers  and  excited  him  to  action.  Europe  thus  became  the  school  of  his  youth, 
and  the  field  of  his  first  studies  in  arms  and  in  navigation.  Then  Science  and  the 
Mechanic  Arts  exercised  his  thoughts  and  his  powers  ;  and,  at  length,  the  great  questions 

1* 


VI  PREFACE. 

of  Civil  Freedom  and  Moral  Responsibility.  And  now,  he  no  longer  groveled  in  the  dust 
beneath  a  master's  frown.  He  walked  erect,  and  raised  his  eyes  to  that  Heaven  to 
which  his  aspirations  point.  He  formed  various  governments,  retaining,  indeed,  many 
traces  of  Asiatic  despotism,  yet  far  better  adapted  to  his  wants  in  his  advancing 
development.  By  slow  degrees,  he  learned  the  necessity  of  a  more  perfect  organization, 
which  should  recognize  and  protect  the  rights  of  the  many.  After  long  and  severe 
struggles,  the  power  of  the  rulers  was  limited  by  written  constitutions  and  laws.  This 
great  advance  toward  popular  freedom  satisfied  him  for  a  time;  but  still  increasing 
knowledge  taught  him  how  oppressive  and  unjust  were  the  Social,  Civil,  and  Religious 
Institutions  under  which  he  lived.  He  saw  that  the  power  was  held  by  the  few,  and  not 
by  the  many.  Entire  freedom  of  thought  and  action  was  not  tolerated.  Religion  was 
bound  by  prescribed  forms  and  creeds,  niul  the  church  and  state  were  leagued  together 
in  a  double-headed  tyranny.  Man's  intellect  was  benumbed  by  the  influence  of  a  cor- 
ruj^  priesthood,  and  his  social  rights  crushed  by  the  heel  of  a  feudal  despot.  At  length, 
the  glorious  Reformation  gave  an  electric  shock  to  his  mental  powers,  taught  him  to 
distrust  authority,  to  trace  effects  back  to  their  causes,  and  to  seek  tiie  truth  with  no 
other  guide  than  the  reason  which  God  had  given  him.  This  mighty  struggle  for  Religious 
Freedom  was  followed  by  one  as  intense  and  earnest  for  Civil  Liberty.  Man  now  claimed 
free  inquiry  and  self-government  as  his  inalienable  birthright.  In  this  mighty  contest 
between  the  many  and  the  few,  were  reared  and  educated  those  bold,  thoughtful,  and 
earnest  men,  who  left  their  homes  to  bear  across  the  ocean,  and  plant  on  the  shores  of 
North  America,  the  germs  of  Civil  and  Religious  Liberty.  They  found  the  New  World 
opening  before  them,  vast  in  extent,  with  its  fruitful  plains — its  grand  lakes  and  rivers — 
its  oceanic  position — its  varied  but  genial  climate  ;  and  all/ree — free  as  the  broad  ocean 
and  the  boundless  air.  In  this  magnificent  theatre,  unawed  by  kingly  power  or  priestly 
authority,  and  under  no  eye  but  that  of  Heaven,  they  labored  to  reduce  io  practice  their 
theories  of  government  and  religion.  From  New  England  to  Florida,  settlers  from  the 
various  nations  of  Europe  met  to  combine  their  efl^orts  and  gifts,  and  to  carry  out  the 
great  principles  of  Social,  Civil,  and  Religious  Liberty,  on  a  grander  scale  than  had  yet 
been  dreamed  of  in  the  Eastern  World.  Thus  tracing  the  geograpiiical  march  of  mankind 
through  the  three  Northern  Continents,  we  can  say  emphatically— 

*'  Westward  the  cause  of  Freedom  takes  its  way." 
Asia  is  still  ancient  in  all  her  manners  and  customs.  Hardly  a  single  step  of  progress 
has  marked  her  history  for  thousands  of  years.  Europe,  the  theatre  of  modern  history, 
rich  in  science  and  art,  has  advanced  but  slowly,  and  still  watches  with  deep  anxiety  the 
experiment  of  self-government  and  entire  religious  freedom,  which  her  gifted  sons  had 
the  wisdom  to  conceive,  but  not  the  power  to  execute.  In  these  United  States,  the  great 
Republic  of  the  World,  lies  the  grand  and  imposing  theatre  of  the  future  progress  of  the 
race.  We  are  to  work  out,  not  alone  our  own  destiny,  but  that  of  the  whole  world. 
The  ever-increasing  tide  of  emigration  from  other  lands,  and  the  unparalleled  increase 
of  our  own  population,  have  already  extended  our  settlements  from  ocean  to  ocean. 
Cities  spring  up,  and  new  States  are  founded  in  the  wilderness,  and  on  our  distant 
Pacific  shores,  more  rapidly  than  the  magic-built  palaces  of  Eastern  romance.  Here,  all 
the  races  meet  at  last  in  brotherly  co-operation,  and  their  varied  energies  are  moulded  into 
oiie  mighty  and  peaceful  nation.  Meanwhile,  the  spirit  of  investigation  is  abroad,  for  a 
bolder  and  loftier  flight.    Nature,  in  all  her  domains,  is  forced  to  yield  up  her  richest 


PREFACE.  Vll 

secrets  and  rarest  powers  to  the  search  of  a  host  of  philosophers,  mechanics,  and  in- 
ventors. Our  manufactures  already  rival  those  of  Europe  in  variety  and  importance  ; 
and  have  even,  in  some  cases,  superseded  those  of  the  Mother  Country  in  her  own  home- 
markets,  Our  commerce,  speeded  by  tiie  magic  power  of  steam,  furrows  every  sea  and 
port  with  its  restless  keels.  Magnificent  palaces  glide  over  our  great  rivers  and  lakes. 
Our  fiery  coursers  unite  the  wildest  valleys  of  the  interior  with  the  rich  and  busy  ports 
that  line  our  coasts.  Broad  and  deep  chasms  are  spanned  by  bridges  of  fairy  lightness, 
but  wonderful  strength.  Impatient  thought,  already  dissatisfied  with  the  swiftness  of 
steam,  has  called  a  new  messenger  to  its  aid,  and  sends  despatches  over  electric  highways 
with  a  speed  only  rivaled  by  the  light.  The  Free  States  of  the  Atlantic  and  Pacific 
shores  will  soon  exchange  greetings  and  intelligence  that  shall  outstrip  the  sun  in  his 
daily  course.  These  marvellous  applicationss  of  scientific  principles  to  the  wants  of  busy 
life  are  due  to  American  inventors,  and  are  but  a  foretaste  of  the  victories  over  Nature 
which  still  await  their  untiring  energy  and  skill.  Nor  are  Literature,  deep  Science,  or 
the  Fine  Arts  neglected  nor  despised.  Here  is  to  be  the  field  of  yet  greater  triumphs  for 
the  Pen,  the  Pencil,  and  the  Chisel,  through  all  the  realms  of  deep  study,  fervid  eloquence, 
and  the  most  lovely  or  imposing  productions  of  art.  Our  Free  Schools  and  Academies, 
and  our  populor  and  flourishing  Colleges,  are  spreading  every  where  the  light  of  general 
Education — the  only  safeguard  of  liberal  institutions.  Our  free  Presses  are  the  jealous 
guardians  of  our  Civil  and  Social  Rights,  and  tend  to  unite  all  classes  in  one  common 
understanding  and  labor  for  the  public  good.  The  altars  of  Religion  are  no  less 
respected  and  cherished,  because  no  longer  supported  by  civil  or  ecclesiastical  tyranny. 
Our  country 

"  Dreads  not  the  skeptic's  puny  hands, 
V/hile  near  her  school  the  church-spire  stands  ; 
Nor  fears  the  blinded  bigot's  rule 
While  near  her  church-spire  stands  the  school.^'' 

Here,  for  the  first  time  in  human  history,  man  will  be  truhj  man,  protected  and  honored 
as  man,  developed  in  all  his  powers,  and  enabled  to  realize  the  prophetic  dreams  of  his 
infancy,  and  the  growing  hopes  of  his  youth.  Here  shall  be  realized  the  iong-prophesied, 
long-expected  Golden  Jlge,  which  shall  perfectly  reconcile  Order  with  Liberty,  Individual 
Interests  with  the  General  Good,  and  make  Justice  and  Fraternity  the  supreme  principles 
in  the  intercourse,  as  well  of  nations,  as  of  men.  From  this  Free  and  Happy  Land  shall 
go  forth  the  power  to  ])erfect  the  Civilization  of  the  World.  Completing  the  long 
cycle,  the  Arts  of  Freedom  and  of  Peace  shall  be  brought  home  to  the  ancient  cradle  of 
the  race,  and  the  deserts  of  Asia  made  to  rejoice  and  blossom  with  the  fruits  of  the 
highest  culture.  Then  sjiall  commerce,  no  longer  restricted  by  blind  and  selfish  monop- 
olies, weave  a  golden  chain  of  sympathy  and  communion  around  our  globe.  The  free 
exchange  of  products  and  of  works,  in  this  brotherly  co-operation,  shall  arm  man 
with  new  powers  and  energies,  and  confer  upon  him  a  wealth  surpassing  the  wildest 
dreams  of  the  past.  The  inferior  races  shall  be  educated  by  this  friendly  intercourse, 
and  made  fellow-laborers  in  the  great  work  of  human  progress.  To  the  portal  of  this 
Golden  Future,  the  consummation  of  man's  earthly  destiny,  Jlmerica  holds  the  key. 
She  only  can  accomplish  the  work  to  which  she  is  pledged,  and  thus  make  thesublimest 
prophecies  and  aspirations  of  the  Past  the  bright  realities  of  the  Present,  and  the  foun- 
dation for  a  yet  nobler  Future. 

SouTHiNOTON,  Jan.  1st,  1851. 


CONTENTS. 


Page. 

Introduction, 9 

Discoveries  in  America,  .  .  19 
Settlement  of  Virginia,  ...  30 
Settlement  of  New  York,  .  .  40 
Settlement  of  Massachusetts,  .  50 
Settlement  of  New  Hampshire,  70 
Settlement  of  New  Jersey, .  .  74 
Settlement  of  Delaware,  .  .  77 
Settlement  of  Connecticut, .  .  79 
Settlement  of  Maryland,  .  .  86 
Settlement  of  Rhode  Island,  .  89 
Settlement  of  North  Carolina, .  92 
Settlement  of  South  Carolina,  .  95 
Settlement  of  Pennsylvania,  .  98 
Settlement  of  Georgia,  .  .  .102 
The  French  and  Indian  War,  106 
Causes  of  the  Revolution,  .  .118 
War  of  the  Revolution,      .     .125 

Events  of  1776, 140 

Events  of  1777, 146 

Events  of  1778, 157 


Events  of  1779, 162 

Events  of  1780, 169 

Events  of  1781, 177 

Washington's  Administration,  189 
Adam's  Administration,  .  .  200 
Jefferson's  Administration,  .  203 
Madison's  Administration,  .     .211 

Events  of  1813, 222 

Events  of  1814, 231 

Monroe's  Administration,  .  .  245 
J.  Q.  Adams'  Administration,  249 
Jackson's  Administration,  .  .  250 
Van  Buren's  Administration,  .  256 
Harrison's  Administration,  .  261 
Tyler's  Administration, .  .  .  262 
Polk's  Administration,  .  .  .  266 
Taylor's  Administration,  .  .  279 
Fillmore's  Administration, .  .281 
Constitution  of  the  U.  S.,  .  .  283 
Settlement  of  the  States,  .  .  288 
Battles  of  the  Revolution,    .       288 


GENERAL   DIVISION. 

The  History  of  the  United  States  naturally  divides  itself  into  Four  Parts  : — 

THE    FIRST    PERIOD 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  Discovery  of  America,  by  Christopher 
Columbus,  in  1492,  to  the  first  permanent  English  settlement  in  America,  at  James- 
town, Virginia,  in  1607. 

THE    SECOND    PERIOD 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  settlement  of  Jamestown  to  the  Declaration 
of  Independence,  in  1776. 

THE    THIRD    PERIOD 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  Declaration  of  Independence  to  the  adoption 
of  the  Federal  Constitution,  or  present  system  of  government,  in  1789. 

THE   FOURTH   PERIOD 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  adoption  of  the  Constitution  to  the  present 

time. 


INTKODUCTION, 


VIEW   OF   THE   CIVILIZED  WORLD   TWO   THOUSAND   YEARS   BEFORE   CHRIST. 


1.  As  we  glance  our  eyes  over  our  own  fair  land  and  other  countries  of 
the  civilized  world,  and  remark  the  high  state  of  learning  and  the  arts, — the 
facilities  for  travel,  commerce,  and  social  intercourse, — we  should  bear  in  mind 
that  these  blessings  are  the  result  of  long  ages  of  toil,  struggle,  and  earnest 
thought.  Indeed,  we  should  remember  that  the  present  condition  of  society, 
its  civilization,  comfort,  and  refinement,  is  the  great  work  of  the  past ;  the 
grand  monument  of  the  wisdom  and  genius  of  all  preceding  generations.  It 
would  be  interesting  to  trace  the  progress  of  society  from  its  origin,  to  exam- 
ine the  various  steps  and  gradual  advance  in  the  cause  of  human  improve- 
ment to  the  present  time  ;  but  a  veil  of  darkness  covers  the  past,  and  of  the 
early  ages  we  know  comparatively  nothing.  The  various  nations  were  sunk 
in  ignorance,  and,  doubtless,  many  that  toiled  and  struggled  for  the  advance- 
ment of  their  race,  passed  away  without  leaving  on  record  an  event  of  their 
history,  or  even  their  name. 


X  INTRODUCTION. 

2.  The  first  authentic  historical  accounts  we  have  of  mankind,  extend  back 
no  further  than  about  2000  years  before  Christ,  the  period  when  Egypt  was 
distinguished  for  learning,  for  a  knowledge  of  the  arts,  and  for  a  high  degree 
of  national  prosperity.  At  that  time,  most  other  nations  appear  to  have  been 
sunk  in  darkness  ;  at  least,  we  know  comparatively  little  of  their  history. 
The  condition  of  the  world  at  that  period,  and  the  first  dawn  of  civilization, 
may  be  illustrated  by  the  preceding  map  or  picture. 

3.  From  Egypt  a  knowledge  of  the  arts  of  civilized  life  extended  to  other 
nations  bordering  on  the  Mediterranean  sea.  At  that  time,  the  art  of  naviga- 
tion was  little  known.  Commerce  was  carried  on  between  distant  cities  prin- 
cipally by  land.  For  thousands  of  years,  mankind  were  ignorant  of  the  extent 
of  the  eastern  continent,  and  even  of  the  shape  of  the  earth.*  The  oceanf 
was  considered  as  a  mighty  barrier  which  no  one  could  pass.  As  the  light  of 
civilization  spread  abroad,  and  a  spirit  of  commercial  enterprise  took  the  place 
of  the  wandering  and  sluggish  habits  of  barbarous  life,  mankind  began  to  nav- 
igate the  great  rivers  and  inland  seas,  till  a  profital)le  trade  was  carried  on  in 
ships  between  distant  nations.  The  art  of  navigation,  as  we  shall  see  by  trac- 
ing its  progress  from  its  infancy  down  to  its  present  state  of  perfection,  has 
been  attended  with  the  most  important  results  to  man. 

4.  The  Phoenicians, t  or  Tyrians,  a  people  who  dwelt  on  the  east  of  the 
Mediterranean,  were  most  early  distinguished  for  commercial  enterprise.  It 
is  supposed  that  they  first  constructed  ships,  and  invented  the  art  of  navigation. 
They  traded  not  only  with  the  nations  inhabiting  the  coasts  of  the  Mediterra- 
nean, but  established  a  regular  intercourse  with  India  and  Arabia,  by  the  way 
of  the  isthmus  of  Suez  and  the  Red  sea.  From  these  countries  they  imported 
the  most  valuable  commodities,  and  for  a  long  time  engrossed  that  lucra- 
tive trade  without  a  rival.  The  vast  wealth  which  they  acquired  by  this 
means,  induced  the  Hebrews,  in  the  days  of  David  and  Solomon,  to  engage  in 
commercial  aflfairs.  They  sent  ships  from  Eziongeber,  a  port  on  the  Red  sea, 
to  Ophir,  [see  ]  Kings,  ix.  26,]  and  after  an  absence  of  three  years,  these  re- 
turned laden  with  gold,  ivory,  ebony,  &c. 

5.  The  Egyptians,  Greeks,  and  Romans,  the  most  learned  nations  of  an- 
tiquity, seem  to  have  paid  no  attention  to  navigation  further  than  it  was  con- 
nected with  the  means  of  conquest  and  military  glory.  The  Carthagenians,^ 
on  the  other  hand,  surpassed  all  others  of  that  period  in  commerce  and  naval 
power.  They  made  the  whole  of  the  old  world  tributary  to  their  city.  Not 
content  with  exploring  every  nook  and  corner  of  the  Mediterranean,  they  visi- 
ted the  Atlantic  coasts  of  Europe,  the  British  isles,  and,  according  to  Pliny,  a 
Roman  historian,  they  circumnavigated  Africa,  and  returned  home  by  way  of 

*  Formerly  the  earth  was  supposed  to  be  flat,  and  the  heavenly  bodies  to  move 
round  it. 

t  "  The  ocean,"  says  an  eminent  Arabian  geographer  of  that  time,  "  encircles  the 
ultimate  bounds  of  the  inhabited  earth,  and  all  beyond  it  is  unknown.  No  one  has 
been  able  to  verify  any  thing  conceniing  if,  on  account  of  its  difficult  and  perilous 
navigation,  its  great  obscurity,  its  profound  depth,  and  frequent  tempests,  through 
fear  of  its  miglity  fishes,  and  'its  haughty  winds.  Yet  there  are  many  islands  in  it, 
some  of  which  are  peopled,  and  others  uninhabited.  There  is  no  mariner  who  dares 
to  enter  into  its  deep  waters  ;  or  if  they  have  done  so,  they  have  merely  kept  along 
its  coasts,  fearful  of  departing  from  them." 

t  The  invention  of  letters  is  attributed  to  the  Phoenicians.  Cadmus,  the  leader  of 
a  colony  from  Phoenicia,  founded  Thebes,  and  introduced  letters  into  Greece,  about 
1519  B.  C.     The  alphabet  at  that  time  consisted  only  of  sixteen  letters. 

§  Cai-thage,  a  famous  city  of  Africa,  founded  by  a  colony  of  Phcenicians  or  Tyrians, 
B.  C.  860,  and  capital  of  a  rich  commercial  republic  of  the  same  name.  It  was  de- 
stroyed by  the  Romans,  B.  C.  14G. 


INTRODUCTION.  XI 

the  Red  sea.  Had  not  Carthage  early  fallen  by  the  power  of  the  Romans,  per- 
haps to  them  would  have  accrued  the  glory  of  discovering  America,  ages  be- 
fore it  was  made  known  to  the  civilized  world. 

6.  The  art  of  navigation  gained  nothing  for  centuries  after  the  fall  of  Car- 
thage. But  from  the  subversion  of  the  Roman  empire,*  it  seems  to  have  been 
forgotten  until  the  returning  dawn  of  civilization  which  succeeded  the  gloomy 
period  called  the  dark  ages.  The  rude  tribes  which  settled  in  Italy,  having  ac- 
quired some  relish  for  the  arts  of  civilized  life,  engaged  in  commercial  affairs 
with  spirit  and  activity.  From  about  the  ninth  to  the  fourteenth  century,  they 
were  the  only  commercial  people  of  Europe. f 

7.  Among  these  the  Venetians  took  the  lead.  For  a  long  time  they  engross- 
ed the  whole  of  the  lucrative  commerce  of  India,  which  they  carried  on  by  way 
of  Egypt  and  the  Red  sea,t  or  through  the  inland  routes  of  Asia.  The  im- 
mense wealth  which  they  acquired  by  this  trade,  and  the  high  prices  put  upon 
the  articles  thus  imported,  excited  the  envy  and  the  enterprise  of  other  nations 
of  Europe.  Many  began  anxiously  to  inquire,  whether  another  route  to  India 
could  not  be  found ;  one  less  tedious,  less  expensive  ;  one  that  would  afford 
a  free  and  easy  course  to  the  nations  of  Europe,  and  enable  them  to  procure 
at  a  cheaper  rate  the  valuable  productions  that  Southern  Asia  afforded. 

8.  About  this  time,  the  mariner's  compass  (J)  was  invented,  and  man  was  en- 
abled to  pass  the  boundary  within  which  he  had  been  so  long  confined.     Soon 

*  Rome  was  taken,  A.  D.  476,  by  Odoacer,  prince  of  the  Ileruli,  and  an  end  put 
to  the  Western  Roman  Empire.  Its  ruin,  however,  was  the  result  of  its  great  extent, 
connected  with  its  moral  corruption.  Rome  had  become  the  seat  of  luxury,  wicked- 
ne.ss,  and  profligacy.  It  contained  within  itself  the  seed.s  of  dissolution,  and  the 
Goths,  Vandals,  Huns,  A:c.,  who  came  to  take  vengeance  on  the  empire,  only  hast- 
ened its  downfall.  It  now  pa.ssed  forever  from  the  hands  of  its  original  masters, 
into  the  hands  of  the  barbarians  who  had  so  long  hara.ssed  it  by  their  invasions. 
These  tribes  issued  from  their  wilds,  and,  like  a  mighty  torrent,  rolled  on  and  swept 
away  every  thing  before  them.  Their  path  was  marked  by  blood  and  fire.  Noth- 
ing was  sacred.  A  night  of  moral  and  intellectual  darkness  ovenspread  the  world. 
For  several  aiges,  literature,  science,  taste,  were  words  scarcely  in  use.  Persons  of 
the  highest  ratjk,  and  in  the  most  eminent  stations,  could  not  read  or  write.  This 
state  of  things,  called  the  DARK  AGES,  continued  from  the  extinction  of  the  West- 
ern Empire  to  what  is  termed  the  revival  of  learning,  about  A.D.  14-50. 

t  By  means  of  their  extensive  commercial  intercourse  with  various  parts  of  Eu- 
rope, Asia,  and  Africa,  the  Italians  possessed  more  geographical  knowledge  and 
nautical  skill,  and  had  acquired  more  correct  ideas  of'the  true  figure  of  the  earth, 
than  any  other  people  of  that  age.  This  will  account  for  the  singular  fact,  that  tlie 
discoverer  of  America,  and  those  who  soon  after  explored  diflfereut  parts  of  it,  were 
nativesof  the  commercial  cities  of  Italy,  viz.  Columbus,  Americus  Vespucius,  Cabot, 
and  Verrazzani. 

X  If  you  will  examine  a  map,  you  will  perceive,  that  although  the  Venetians  pur- 
sued the  shortest  route  between  India  and  Europe,  yet  it  must  have  been  laborious, 
slow,  and  expensive.  For  the  goods  were  transported  to  the  isthmus  of  Suez  by 
water,  there  landed,  and  conveyed  in  carriages,  or  on  camels,  a  distance  of  more 
than  sixty  miles,  to  the  ports  of  the  Mediterranean,  where  they  were  re-shipped  and 
transported  to  Venice  or  other  ports  of  Europe.  Now  you  will  perceive  that  a  con- 
tinued water  pa,ssage  of  much  greater  length,  might  be  elfected  with  less  difficulty 
and  less  expense. 

§  The  mariner's  compass  is  an  instrument  used  by  sailors  to  point  out  their 
course  at  sea.  It  consists  of  a  magnetic  needle  su.<:pended  freely  on  a  pivot,  contain- 
ing a  card  marked  with  the  thirty-two  points  of  direction  into  which  the  horizon  is 
divided,  and  which  are  thence  called  POINTS  OF  COMPASS.  The  needle  always 
points  to  the  north,  except  slithf  variations,  and  the  direction  which  the  ship  is 
steering  is  therelbre  determined  by  a  mere  in.'-pection  of  the  card.  When  and  by 
whom  the  compass  was  invented  is  uncertain;  but  it  is  supposed  to  have  been 
in  1302,  by  Flavius  Gioia,  of  Naples.    It  did  liot  come    into  general  use,  bow- 


XU  INTRODUCTION. 

after  this,  the  art  of  printing  was  invented.  These  had  a  wonderful  effect  on 
society.  Mankind  now  seemed  to  awake  as  from  a  dream.  They  began  to 
think,  to  study  the  laws  of  nature,  to  found  schools  and  colleges.  A  spirit  of 
rnaritime  discovery  was  awakened.  Several  nations  began  to  turn  their  atten- 
tion to  navigation  and  commercial  enterprise. 

9.  Among  these,  the  Portuguese  led  the  way  ;  and  to  them  is  justly  due  the 
honor  of  setting  on  foot  those  enterprises  of  discovery  and  commerce,  which 
have  been  attended  with  such  happy  results  to  the  human  race.  Under  the 
patronage  of  Prince  Henry*  they  discovered  the  Azores,  Madeira,  and  Cape 
Verde  islands,  and  explored  the  shores  of  Africa  to  the  coast  of  Guinea.  The 
fame  of  these  discoveries  attracted  the  learned,  the  curious,  and  the  adventu- 
rous, from  various  nations  to  Lisbon.  Among  others,  Christopher  Columbusf 
arrived  there  about  1470. 

10.  During  his  residence  in  Portugal,  he  sailed  in  several  of  their  expedi- 
tions to  the  coast  of  Guinea  and  the  African  islands.     He  participated  largely 

ever,  till  after  the  year  1400.  This  important  instrument  has  had  more  influence  on 
navigation  than  all  the  efforts  of  preceding  ages.  It  has  enabled  man  to  quit  his 
timid  course  along  the  shore,  and  steer  boldly  across  the  unknown  deep.  It  has 
opened  to  him  the  dominion  of  the  sea,  and  has  put  him  in  possession  of  the  terres- 
trial globe,  by  enabling  him  to  visit  every  part  of  it. 

*  Prince  Henry,  the  navigator,  son  of  John  I.,  king  of  Portugal.  He  was  born, 
A.D.  1394.  He  early  manifested  a  love  for  arms  and  military  glory,  particularly 
in  the  wars  against  the  Moors  ;  but  this  was  surpassed,  however,  by  his  love  of  the 
sciences,  especially  mathematics,  asti-onomy,  and  navigation.  During  his  expedi- 
tions in  Africa,  his  vessels  visited  partsof  the  ocean  which  the  navigators  of  that  age 
had  regarded  as  inaccessible.  But  Prince  Henry  meditated  the  discovery  of  coun- 
tries till  then  unknown.  Familiar  with  the  previous  progress  of  geographical 
science,  he  neglected  no  opportunity,  during  his  campaigns  in  Africa,  to  obtain  from 
the  Moors  a  knowledge  of  the  regions  bordering  on  Egypt  and  Arabia,  and  to  inquire 
into  the  probability  of  a  passage  to  the  treasures  of  India,  by  a  voyage  round  the 
western  coast  of  Africa.  The  Moors,  or  Ai'abians,  alone,  at  this  period,  were  ac- 
quainted with  this  portion  of  the  earth.  From  this  source  he  received  much  inform- 
ation respecting  the  coast  of  Guinea  and  other  maritime  regions.  Fully  pei-suaded 
that  Africa  was  circumnavigable— that  a  ship,  by  keeping  along  its  shore,  might  sail 
from  Europe  to  India — he  offered  generous  rewards  to  all  who  would  undertake 
voyages  of  discovery  down  the  western  coast  of  Africa.  Although  he  died  before 
he  had  accomplished  the  great  object  of  his  ambition,  viz.,  A  PASSAGE  TO  INDIA 
BY  WATER,  yet  he  lived  long  enotigh  to  behold,  through  his  means,  his  native 
country  in  a  grand  career  of  prosperity.    He  died  in  1463. 

t  Christopher  Columbus  was  born  in  the  city  of  Genoa,  about  14.35.  His  father, 
Dominico  Columbo,  a  poor  wool-comber,  gave  him  as  good  an  education  as  his  lim- 
ited means  would  allow.  He  early  evinced  a  strong  passion  for  geogi-aphical 
knowledge,  and  an  irresistible  inclination  for  the  sea;  and  at  fourteen  years  of  age 
he  began  to  navigate  the  Mediterranean.  He  commenced  his  sea-faring  career  with 
a  relative  named  Columbo,  a  hardy  old  captain  of  the  seas,  bold  and  adventurous, 
and  ready  to  fight  in  any  cause.  With  this  veteran  cruiser,  Columbus  sailed  sev- 
eral years,  engaged  in  warlike  enterprises  against  the  Mohammedans  and  Venetians. 
In  one  of  his  engagements  with  the  Venetians,  the  vessel  commanded  by  Columbus 
grappled  with  a  large  galley,  and  the  crews  fought  in  close  combat.  In  the  fury  of 
the  contest  they  threw  hand-grenades  and  other  fiery  missiles.  The  galley  took  fire, 
and  both  vessels  soon  became  one  flaming  mass.  The  crews  threw  themselves  into 
the  sea.  Columbus  saved  his  life  by  swimming  ashore.  Portugal,  at  this  time, 
attracted  the  attention  of  Europe  by  her  maritime  expeditions  and  discoveries.  Co- 
lumbus repaired  to  Lisbon  about  1470.  Here  he  married  the  daughter  of  Barthol- 
omeo  de  Pallestrello,  a  distinguished  navigator,  who  had  participated  in  the  dis- 
covery of  some  of  the  African  islands,  and  had  left  many  charts,  journals,  and 
■nautical  instruments.  Columbus  made  use  of  these  materials,  and  by  profound 
"study  became  persuaded  that  the  siiortest  route  to  India  would  be  found  by  sailing 
in  a  westerly  direction. 


INTRODUCTION.  XUl 

in  the  excitement  which  was  felt  by  all  concerned  in  maritime  affairs.  As  it 
was  the  grand  object  of  the  Portuguese  at  that  time  to  discover  a  passage  to 
the  Indies  by  water,  Columbus,  from  his  knowledge  of  the  spherical  figure  of 
the  earth,  was  persuaded,  that  instead  of  sailing  round  the  southern  extremity 
of  Africa,  a  shorter  and  more  easy  route  might  be  found  by  steering  directly 
west,  across  the  Atlantic  ocean. 

11.  He  supposed  that  the  eastern  coast  of  Asia  was  separated  from  the 
western  shores  of  Europe  and  Africa  by  an  ocean  of  moderate  extent.  Several 
facts  tended  to  confirm  this  idea.  Pieces  of  carved  wood,  reeds  of  an  enor- 
mous size,  and  above  all,  a  canoe  with  the  dead  bodies  of  two  men,  differing 
in  complexion  from  any  known  race  of  people,  had  been  driven  by  westerly 
winds  upon  the  Azores,  or  Western  islands.  These,  and  other  facts  of  similar 
import,  convinced  him  that  land  might  be  easily  )9ached  by  sailing  in  a  west- 
erly direction. 

12.  Having  established  his  theory,  and  matured  the  plan  of  a  voyage,  he  now 
began  to  think  of  the  means  of  carrying  it  into  execution.  Believing  it  too 
important  an  enterprise  to  be  undertaken  by  an  individual,  he  deemed  it  ne- 
cessary to  secure  the  patronage  of  some  sovereign  power.  For  this  purpose, 
in  1484,  he  made  his  views  known  to  John  H.,  king  of  Portugal ;  but  instead  of 
receiving  assistance,  he  experienced  ridicule,  contempt,  and  ingratitude.* 

13.  Columbus  soon  after  returned  and  laid  his  plans  before  the  government 
of  Genoa.  But  that  republic  was  then  in  a  state  of  decline,  and  embarrassed 
by  ruinous  wars ;  and  in  addition  to  this,  its  rulers  were  ignorant,  and  unable 
to  form  any  idea  of  the  principles  upon  which  he  founded  his  hopes  of  success. 
They  looked  upon  his  proposed  voyage  as  the  project  of  a  visionary,  or  lunatic. 

14.  Columbus  next  applied  to  Ferdinand  and  Isabella,  king  and  queen  of 
Spain.  They  listened  to  his  views  with  attention,  and  gave  him  hopes  of  assist- 
ance. Soon  after,  a  councilf  of  the  most  learned  men  in  the  kingdom  was  as- 
sembled by  their  order,  to  hold  a  conference  with  Columbus  and  report  their 
opinion  as  to  the  merits  of  his  theory.  But  these,  mostly  bishops  and  priests, 
were  poorly  qualified  to  decide  upon  a  subject  so  much  at  variance  with  all  their 
preconceived  notions  and  views.  Consequently  they  came  to  no  decision,  and 
Columbus  was  kept  several  years  in  a  state  of  suspense,  struggling  with  the  ob- 

*  King  John  gave  Columbus  an  attentive  hearing,  and  being  struck  with  the 
scheme,  he  referred  it  to  a  council  of  learned  men.  It  was  treated  by  them  with 
contempt,  as  extravagant  and  visionary.  Some  of  them  proposed,  however,  a  treach- 
erous experiment  to  test  the  truth  of  his  theory,  and  if  found  correct,  thus  secure  the 
glory  of  the  discovery  to  the  crown  of  Portugal.  The  king  assented  to  this,  and  pro- 
curing from  Columbus  a  plan  of  his  intended  voyage  in  writing,  and  the  charts  by 
which  he  intended  to  shape  his  course,  he  dispatched  a  caramel,  or  small  vessel,  to 
pursue  the  designated  route.  The  captain,  however,  was  as  deficient  in  courage  as 
his  employers  were  in  dignity  and  justice.  After  sailing  in  a  westerly  direction  for 
some  days,  and  seeing  nothing  but  a  waste  of  wild  tumbling  waves  before  him,  he 
returned  to  Lisbon,  ridiculing  and  execrating  the  project  as  wild,  irrational,  and, 
above  all,  DANGEROUS  ! 

t  At  the  time  of  Columbus,  the  state  of  knowledge,  even  among  the  learned,  was 
very  imperfect ;  while,  to  the  great  mass,  nature  was  a  sealed  book,  and  every  thing 
shrouded  in  mystery.  The  learned  council,  assembled  to  decide  upon  Columbus's 
theory,  came  prepossessed  against  him.  They  were  far  more  disposed  to  criticise 
and  raise  objections,  than  to  listen  to  the  dictates  of  reason  and  sound  argument. 
Like  the  stupid  and  ignorant  of  all  ages,  they  were  ready  to  condemn  every  thing 
that  squared  not  with  their  own  preconceived  views  and  notions.  After  hearing 
the  novel  theory  of  Columbus,  and  the  reasons  urged  in  support  of  it,  it  was  con- 
tended by  certain  ones  that,  however  plausible  his  ideas  might  appear,  they  must  be 
fal.se,  for  thev  were  incompatible  with  the  Christian  faith,  and  contrary  to  certain 
passages  in  the  Bible !    OtherB  ridiculed  his  pretensions  as  wild  and  extravagant. 

2 


XIV  INTRODUCTION. 

stacles  thrown  in  his  way  by  ignorance,  bigotry,  and  malice,  before  he  was  en- 
abled to  proceed  on  a  voyage  of  discovery.  At  length,  by  orders  of  Isabella,  a 
fleet,  consisting  of  three  small  vessels  and  one  hundred  and  twenty  men,  was 
fitted  out  and  placed  under  his  command. 


VIEW     OF     THie     CIVILIZES     WORLD,     A.D.     149'^. 

15.  By  examining  the  above  map,  it  will  be  seen  how  much  of  the  earth's 
surface  was  known  to  the  civilized  world  at  the  time  Columbus  sailed  on  hJs 
voyage  of  discovery.  It  is  true,  navigation  had  been  greatly  improved  by  the 
use  of  the  mariner's  compass,  and  many  of  the  nations  of  Europe  were  begin- 
ning to  enjoy  the  blessings  of  learning,  of  the  arts,  and  of  commerce ;  yet, 
nothing  was  known  with  any  degree  of  certainty  respecting  the  extent  and  true 
shape  of  the  earth.     Even  Columbus  himself  never  dreamed  of  discovering  a 

"  What  vanity,"  said  they,  "to  think  at  this  late  day  he  has  discovered  something 
which  has  escaped  the  notice  of  all  before  him  !"  "How  ridiculous  are  his  plans  !" 
said  others ;  "  for  we  all  know,  that  if  a  ship  should  sail  westward  on  a  globe,  she 
would  necessarily  go  down  on  the  opposite  side,  and  if  she  did  not  slip  otf,  it  would 
be  impossible  for  her  ever  to  return,  for  it  would  be  like  climbing  up  hill,  which  no 
ship  could  do  with  the  strongest  wind."  "  How  absurd,''  said  another,  "to believe 
that  there  are  people  with  their  feet  opposite  to  ours,  who  walk  with  their  heels  up- 
ward and  their  heads  hanging  down;  that  there  is  a  part  of  the  world  where  all 
things  are  topsy-turvy ;  where  the  trees  grow  with  their  branches  downwards,  and 
where  it  hails,  rains,  and  snows  upward  !" 


INTRODUCTION.  XV 

new  continent,  but  simply  of  finding  a  new  route  to  the  eastern  and  southern 
shores  of  Asia. 

16.  All  things  being  ready,  on  the  3d  of  August,  1492,  Columbus  set  sail  from 
the  port  of  Palos,  in  Spain.  Thus,  after  eighteen  years  of  painful  solicitation 
at  different  courts,  amid  poverty,  neglect,  and  ridicule,  he  was  enabled  to  test 
the  truth  of  his  theory,  and  engage  in  an  enterprise  which  has  led  to  more  im- 
portant results  than  any  ever  before  undertaken  by  man. 

17.  He  steered  directly  for  the  Canary  islands.  Here  he  refitted  his  vessels 
— furnished  himself  with  water  and  fresh  provisions.  On  the  6th  of  Septem- 
ber, he  steered  directly  west  into  an  ocean  on  which  no  vessel  had  ever  before 
sailed.  No  sooner  were  they  out  of  sight  of  land,  than  the  hearts  of  his  crews 
were  filled  with  anguish.  They  seemed  to  have  taken  leave  of  the  world. 
Behind  thern  was  every  thing  dear  to  the  heart  of  man, — country,  family, 
friends;  before  them  was  mystery,  gloom,  and  peril.  After  sailing  twenty -one 
days  without  sight  of  land,  their  courage  began  to  sink  ;  but  Columbus,  by  re- 
minding them  of  the  honors,  the  glory,  the  riches,  they  would  acquire  by  com- 
pleting the  voyage,  succeeded  in  dispelling  their  fears  and  reviving  their  hopes. 

18.  About  this  time  the  needle  of  the  compass  deviated  from  its  course,  that 
is,  it  did  not  point  to  the  north  star,  or  north  pole.  At  this  the  pilots,  and 
even  Columbus  himself,  became  alarmed.  They  were  fearful  that  this  in- 
strument was  about  to  lose  its  mysterious  virtues ;  and  without  this  guide, 
what  was  to  become  of  them  on  a  vast  and  trackless  ocean?  But  shortly 
after,  they  met  large  quantities  of  floating  sea-weed,  and  several  land-birds 
were  also  seen.  For  some  time  the  voyage  was  continued  with  animated 
hopes.  They  every  moment  expected  to  see  land;  but  after  sailing  many 
day.s  without  seeing  any,  they  decame  disheartened.  The  impatience  of  the 
sailors  rose  to  absolute  mutiny. 

19.  "Here  we  are,"  said  they,  "sailing  day  after  day  into  seas  where  man 
has  never  sailed  before.  And  for  what  ?  Why,  simply  that  our  commander, 
who  is  an  ambitious  desperado,  may  do  something  extravagant  to  render  him- 
self notx>rious.  Shall  we  continue  on  until  all  perish,  or  return  while  we  have 
the  power  of  so  doing  ?  Who  would  blame  us  ?  He  is  a  foreigner,  without 
friends.  His  schemes  have  been  condemned  and  ridiculed  by  the  learned. 
Many  would  be  gratified  by  his  failure." 

20.  Some  even  proposed  to  throw  him  overboard,  and  return  without  him. 
Columbus  was  aware  of  the  state  of  feeling  among  the  crews  ;  and  after  trying 
various  ways  to  pacify  them,  promised  that,  if  they  would  continue  on  three 
days  longer,  he  would  then  return  if  land  was  not  discovered.  To  this  they 
all  agreed.  The  next  day  they  became  convinced  that  they  were  near  land. 
Birds  were  seen  flying  in  all  directions.  A  branch  of  a  thorn-bush,  with 
berries  on  it,  floated  by.  They  picked  up  a  reed,  a  small  board,  and  a  staff 
curiously  carved. 

21.  There  were  now  no  murmurs,  no  complaints.  Every  eye  was  turned  in 
the  direction  whence  land  was  expected  to  be  seen.  On  the  following  night, 
October  11th,  all  remained  on  deck.  About  10  o'clock  Columbus  saw  some- 
thing :  it  appeared  to  be  a  light  at  a  great  distance.  He  pointed  it  out  to  those 
near  him.  They  saw  it.  They  continued  on  till  about  two  in  the  morning, 
when  a  gun  from  the  forward  vessel  gave  the  joyful  signal  of  land.  When  day- 
light appeared,  they  saw  before  them  a  level  and  beautiful  island,  of  great 
freshness  and  verdure,  which  Columbus  afterward  named  St,  Salvador.*     It 

*  The  first  land  that  Columbus  discovered,  was  one  of  the  Bahama  Islands,  in  the 
West  Indies,  called  by  the  natives  Gua-na-ha'-hi.  Columbus  named  it  St.  Salvador, 
It  is  now  called  Cat  island.    It  is  about  60  miles  in  length,  and  12  in  breadth. 


XVI  INTRODUCTION, 

was  covered  with  trees,  and  evidently  populous,  for  multitudes  were  seen  is- 
suing from  the  woods,  and  running  from  all  parts  to  the  shore.  All  the  boats 
were  immediately  manned  and  armed,  and  the  Spaniards  rowed  toward  the 
shore  with  music  and  martial  pomp. 

22.  Columbus  went  first  on  shore,  and  was  followed  by  his  men.  They  all 
knelt,  and  kissed  the  ground  with  tears  of  joy,  and  returned  thanks  to  God  for 
their  successful  voyage.  Columbus  now  drawing  his  sword,  planted  the  royal 
standard,  and  took  formal  possession  of  the  country  in  the  name  of  the  king 
and  queen  of  Spain.  The  natives*  witnessed  these  ceremonies  with  wonder. 
All  was  new  to  them ;  the  complexion,  the  dress,  the  shining  armor  of  the 
Spaniards. 

23.  Columbus,  perceiving  them  to  be  a  simple  and  inoffensive  people,  to  gain 
their  good  will,  gave  them  some  red  caps,  strings  of  beads,  and  other  trifles, 
which  they  received  with  the  greatest  transport.  He  spent  a  few  days  in  ex- 
amining the  coasts  and  productions  of  the  country,  and  then  sailed  to  other 
islands  which  lay  within  sight.  Having  discovered  Cuba  and  Hispaniola,t 
and  several  other  islands,  he  built  a  fort  and  left  a  colony  of  thirty-nine  men. 
He  obtained  large  quantities  of  gold,  and  other  valuable  articles,  and  taking  a 
number  of  the  natives,  he  sailed  for  Spain,  Jan.  4,  1493. 

24.  After  encountering  many  toils  and  dangers,  he  arrived  at  Palos  on  the 
]5th  of  March,  amid  the  shouts  of  the  people,  the  ringing  of  bells,  and  the  thun- 
der of  cannon.  Success  usually  causes  an  astonishing  change  in  the  opinions 
of  mankind.  Columbus,  who  had  been  treated  as  a  senseless  visionary,  was 
now  received  with  almost  regal  honors.  His  entrance  into  Barcelona,  where 
the  court  then  resided,  was  a  species  of  triumph  more  glorious  than  that  of  a 
conqueror.     It  was  the  tribute  of  respect  paid  to  genius  and  exalted  worth, 

25.  Columbus,  after  this,  made  three  other  voyages  to  the  new  world,  and 
on  the  1st  of  August,  1498,  he  discovered  the  continent  near  the  mouth  of  the 
Orinoko.  The  latter  part  of  his  life  was  imbittered  by  the  envy  and  malice 
of  his  enemies.  In  a  word,  he  experienced  the  fate  of  the  truly  great.  With 
an  ingratitude  scarcely  to  be  paralleled,  he  was  once  sent  home  in  chains, J 
to  answer  a  groundless  accusation.  Though  declared  innocent,  and  apparently 
restored  to  regal  favor,  he  never  received  the  rewards  due  to  his  merit.*^  Even 

*  India  was  a  term  applied  by  Europeans  to  the  southeastern  parts  of  Asia,  and 
the  adjacent  islands.  As  Columbus  was  in  search  of  these  regions,  the  first  land  he 
discovered  he  supposed  to  be  a  part  of  India,  and  he  called  the  inhabitants  IN- 
DIANS, and  this  name  was  subsequently  apphed  to  all  the  natives  of  the  western 
world,  and  which  tliey  still  retain. 

t  The  island  was  named  Hispaniola  by  the  Spanish,  and  St.  Domingo  by  the 
French.    It  is  now  called  Hayti,  the  original  Indian  name. 

+  These  chains  Columbus  kept  hanging  in  his  room  during  his  life,  and  requested 
that  when  he  died  they  might  be  buried  in  his  grave,  which  was  accordingly  done. 

§  The  Spanish  nobility  were  envious  of  the  honors  and  distinctions  conferred 
upon  Columbus,  and  they  sought  every  opportunity  to  detract  from  his  merits,  and 
to  decry  the  greatness  of  his  actions.  They  insinuated  that  his  discoveries  were 
rather  the  result  of  an  accident  than  of  well-concerted  measures.  At  a  public  din- 
ner, several  courtiers  abruptly  asked  him,  whether,  in  case  he  bad  not  discovered 
the  Indies,  there  would  not  have  been  men  in  Spain  capable  of  doing  it.  Columbus 
made  no  direct  reply,  but,  calling  for  an  egg,  he  invited  the  company  to  make  it 
stand  upon  one  end.  When  every  one  had  attempted  it  in  vain,  and"  confessed  it 
impossible,  "Give  it  to  me,"  said  Columbus.  Having  taken  it,  he  struck  it  upon 
the  table,  broke  one  end,  and  left  it  standing  on  the  broken  part.  Tliey  all  cried 
out,  "Why, /could  have  done  that."  "Yes  "said  Columbus  "but  none  of  you 
thought  of  it.  So  I  discovered  the  Indies,  and  now  every  pilot  can  steer  the  same 
course.  Remember  the  scoffs  that  were  thrown  out  at  me  before  I  put  my  design 
into  execution.  Then  it  was  a  dream,  a  chimera,  a  delusion  ;  now  it  is  what  any 
person  might  have  done  as  well  as  I !" 


INTRODUCTION.  XVU 

tke  honor  of  giving  name  to  the  new  world  he  had  discovered,  was  denied  him. 
Worn  down  with  anxieties,  fatigue,  and  sufferings,  he  ended  his  useful  life  at 
Valladolid,  the  20th  of  May,  1506.  His  last  words  were,  "  Into  thy  hands,  O 
Lord,  I  commend  m}'  spirit." 

26.  He  died,  says  Mr.  Irving,  in  ignorance  of  the  real  grandeur  of  his  dis- 
covery. Until  his  last  breath,  he  entertained  the  idea  that  he  had  merely 
opened  a  new  way  to  the  old  resorts  of  opulent  commerce,  and  had  discovered 
some  of  the  wild  regions  of  the  east.  He  supposed  Hispaniola  to  be  the  an- 
cient Ophir  which  had  been  visited  by  the  ships  of  King  Solomon,  and  that 
Cuba  and  Terra  Firma  were  but  remote  parts  of  Asia,  What  visions  of  glory- 
would  have  broken  upon  his  mind,  could  he  have  known  that  he  had  indeed 
discovered  a  new  continent,  equal  to  the  old  world  in  magnitude,  and  separated 
by  two  vast  oceans  from  all  the  earth  hitherto  known  by  civilized  men  ! 

27.  The  discoveries  of  Columbus  produced  a  powerful  excitement  in  Spain 
and  Portugal.  Several  individuals,  stimulated  by  the  hope  of  wealth  and 
honors,  made  equipments  at  their  own  expense,  and  crossed  the  ocean. 
Among  the  earliest  of  these  adventurers,  was  Alonzo  de  Ojeda,  an  enterpris- 
ing officer  who  had  accompanied  Columbus  in  his  first  expedition.  He  sailed 
in  1499,  and  discovered  the  main  land  at  the  mouth  of  the  Orinoko.  With 
him  was  one  Americus  Vespucius,*  who  published  on  his  return  so  flattering 
an  accovmt  of  his  voyage,  as  to  make  it  appear  that  he  had  the  honor  of  first 
discovering  the  continent  of  the  new  world.  His  description  was  the  first 
given  to  the  public.  It  circulated  rapidly,  and  was  read  with  admiration.  By 
this  means  he  obtained  the  honor  of  giving  his  name  to  this  continent,  but  not 
without  manifest  injustice  to  Columbus. 

*  Americus  Vespucius  was  born  at  Florence,  in  Italy,  in  1451.  He  early  discov- 
ered a  taste  for  philosophy,  mathematics,  and  navigation.  In  1490,  he  went  to  Spaia 
for  the  purpose  of  trading,  and  was  at  Seville  when  Columbus  was  making  prepa- 
rations for  his  second  voyage.  The  success  of  Columbus's  undertaking  induced 
Vespucius  to  give  up  trade  and  explore  these  newly-discovered  countries.  In  1499, 
he  sailed  with  Ojeda,  as  stated  above,  after  having  clandestinely  obtained  from  the 
bishop  of  Burgos  the  drafts  and  plans  which  Columbus  had  left  in  his  hands,  in 
obedience  to  the  orders  of  their  Catholic  majesties.  He  made  several  voyages  after- 
ward, and  died  at  Seville  in  1512. 

2* 


INTRODUCTORY    LESSON. 


What  is  the  name  of  this  town  ?  What  is  the  principal  employment  of  the 
people  of  this  town  ?  What  do  you  understand  by  agriculture  '.  Manufac- 
tures ?  Commerce?  Have  any  events  worthy  of  notice  taken  place  in  this 
town  since  you  can  remember?  Do  you  think  any  have  happened  since  your 
parents  can  remember  ?  Can  you  mention  any  that  have  been  told  you  ?  Can 
you  mention  the  names  of  any  distinguished  persons  that  have  lived  in  this 
town ?  Can  you  inform  me  when  this  town  was  first  settled  by  white  people, 
or  Europeans  ?  Who  lived  here  before  the  white  people  came  ?  What  has 
become  of  the  Indians  ?  Should  you  like  to  hear  a  person  relate  all  the  im- 
portant events  that  have  happened  in  this  town,  since  it  was  first  settled  by 
■white  people  ?  Wliat  would  you  call  this  relation  or  account?  Does  history 
always  signify  a  relation  or  narrative  of  past  events  ? 


What  is  the  name  of  this  county  ?  Can  you  inform  me  which  town  in  this 
county  contains  the  greatest  number  of  inhabitants  ?  Which  is  the  shire  or 
county  town  ?  What  is  the  principal  employment  of  the  people  of  this  county  ? 
Can  you  tell  me  which  town  in  this  county  was  first  settled  by  Europeans? 
Can  you  mention  the  names  of  any  distinguished  persons  that  have  lived  in 
this  county  ?  Can  you  relate  any  e\  ents  worthy  of  notice  that  have  taken 
place  in  this  county  ? 


What  is  the  name  of  this  State  ?  What  is  the  capital  of  it  ?  What  do  you 
mean  by  capital  ?  Which  is  the  most  populous  town  or  city  in  this  State  ? 
What  is  the  difference  between  a  town  and  a  city  ?  Who  is  the  present  gov- 
ernor of  this  State  ?  Who  was  governor  before  him  ?  What  town  was  first 
settled  in  this  State  ?  By  what  European  nation  was  it  settled  ?  How  many 
years  since  ?  Can  you  mention  the  names  of  any  distinguished  individuals 
that  have  lived  in  this  State  ?  Can  you  relate  any  important  events  that  have 
happened  in  this  State  ? 


What  is  the  name  of  this  country  ?  What  is  the  capital  of  the  United  States  ? 
Which  is  the  most  populous  city  in  the  United  States  ?  Where  was  the  first 
permanent  English  settlement  made  in  the  United  States  ?  How  many  years 
since?  Who  is  the  president  of  the  United  States  ?  Who  was  president  be- 
fore him  ?  Who  is  the  vice-president  of  the  United  States  ?  Can  you  men- 
tion the  names  of  any  distinguished  persons  that  have  lived  in  the  United 
States  ?  Can  you  relate  any  important  events  that  have  taken  place  in  the 
United  States  ?  Is  our  present  form  of  government  monarchical  or  republi- 
can ?  What  is  the  difference  between  a  monarchical  form  of  government  and 
a  republican  ? 


HISTORY 

OP 

THE  UNITED  STATES. 


SITUATION     OF     AMERICA     IN     A.D.     1402. 


PERIOD   I. 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  discovery  op  America  by 
Columbus,  in  1492,  to  the  settlement  of  Jamestown,  A.  D.  1607. 

1.  The  discovery  of  America  by  Columbus,  in  1492,  pro- 
duced great  excitement  throughout  the  civihzed  world.  It 
awakened  a  spirit  of  activity,  enterprise,  and  inquiry,  never 

Questions.  What  events  does  the  first  period  comprise  ?  By  whom  was 
America  discovered  ?  When  ?  What  was  the  condition  of  the  country  at  that 
time  ?  Ans.  A  wilderness,  inhabited  by  Indians.  What  does  the  cut  repre- 
sent? 


20  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1497. 

before  known.  The  gold,  the  silver,  and  other  valuable  pro- 
ductions found  by  the  Spaniards,  excited  other  nations  to 
make  discoveries  in  these  new  and  unexplored  regions. 
Among  these  the  Enghsh  took  the  lead. 

2.  In  1497,  John  Cabot,*  and  his  son  Sebastian,!  under 
the  patronage  of  Henry  VII.,:{:  king  of  England,  sailed  from 
Bristol,  with  a  fleet  of  five  ships.  On  the  3d  of  July,  they 
discovered  the  American  continent  in  latitude  56°  N.  "the 
dismal  cliffs  of  Labrador."  Steering  southwardly,  they  soon 
after  arrived  at  the  island  of  Newfoundland.  Thence  they 
sailed  along  the  coast  as  far  south  as  Florida.  Having 
taken  possession  of  the  country  in  behalf  of  the  crown  of 
England,  they  returned  without  making  any  settlement. 

1.  \yhat  effect  did  the  discovery  of  America  produce  ?  What  induced  other 
countries  to  make  discoveries  in  America?  Ans.  The  hopes  of  enriching 
thenriselves  by  extending  their  commerce,  acquiring  vast  territories,  and  ob- 
taining gold,  silver,  and  other  valuable  productions.  What  nation  took  the 
lead? 

2.  Who  first  sailed  from  England  to  America?  Who  was  John  Cabot? 
Sebastian  Cabot  ?  Who  was  king  of  England  at  that  time  ?  What  did  they 
discover  ?  Upon  what  did  the  English  found  their  claim  to  the  eastern  part 
of  North  America  ? 


*  John  Cabot  was  a  native  of  Venice.  He  resided  in  Bristol,  England,  some  years 
previous  to  the  discovery  of  America  by  Columbus.  He  was  skilled  in  all  the 
sciences  requisite  to  form  an  accomplished  mariner.  Encouraged  by  the  success 
of  Columbus  in  his  first  voyage,  Cabot  was  determined  to  attempt  the  discovery  of 
unknown  lands.  He  sailed  from  England  the  beginning  of  May,  1497,  with  five'ves- 
sels  freighted  by  the  merchants  of  London  and  Bristol,  with  articles  of  traffic,  and 
300  men.  The  accounts  of  this  voyage  are  involved  in  much  obscurity.  According 
to  some,  after  discovering  the  continent,  he  sailed  north  to  the  latitude  of  sixty-seven 
degrees  ;  but  meeting  with  ice,  he  changed  his  course,  and  sailed  along  the  coast 
toward  the  equator  till  he  came  to  Florida.  Here  his  provisions  failed  him,  and  a 
mutiny  broke  out  among  his  men  ;  and  he  was  compelled  to  return  to  England. 

t  Sebastian  Cabot,  son  of  John  Cabot,  was  born  at  Bristol,  England,  about  the 
year  1477.  He  was  early  instructed  in  the  mathematical  knowledge  necessary  for  a 
seaman,  and  at  the  age  of  seventeen  had  made  several  voyages.  He  sailed  several 
times  to  the  western  continent  for  the  purpose  of  finding  a  passage  to  the  East 
Indies.  Being  disappointed  in  this,  he  quit  England,  and  spent  some  time  in  the 
service  of  Spain.  About  the  beginning  of  the  reign  of  Edward  VI.,  1549,  he  returned 
to  England,  and  had  a  pension  settled  on  him  as  grand  pilot  of  England.  He  died 
about  1557,  leaving  behind  him  a  high  character  both  as  a  skillful  seaman  and  a  man 
of  great  general  abilities. 

X  Henry  VII.,  of  England,  was  born  in  1457.  He  opposed  and  defeated  Richard 
III.,  at  Bosworth,  and  was  proclaimed  king  on  the  field  of  battle  in  1485.  He  was 
devoted  to  the  happiness  of  his  subjects,  and  contributed  materially  to  the  establish- 
ment of  commerce,  the  encouragement  of  industry,  and  to  the  protection  of  the 
arts.  He  checked  the  encroachment  of  the  nobles,  made  salutary  laws,  and  died, 
with  the  reputation  of  a  great  and  good  king,  in  1509. 


1524. 


DISCOVERIES    IN    AMERICA. 


21 


Upon   the  discoveries  made  in  this  voyage,  the  Enghsh 
founded  their  claim  to  the  eastern  part  of  North  America.* ' 


DISCOVERY     or     FLORIDA,     IN     1512. 


3.  In  1512,  Juan  Ponce  de  Leon,t  a  Spanish  commander, 
discovered  and  named  Florida.  Having  obtained  a  commis- 
sion from  the  king  of  Spain,  he  soon  after  attempted  to  plant 
a  colony  in  it.  But  no  sooner  had  he  landed  than  his  corn- 
pany  were  attacked  by  the  natives,  with  poisoned  arrows, 
and  the  greater  part  of  them  killed,  and  the  remainder 
obliged  to  quit  the  country.  In  consequence  of  this  dis- 
covery, the  Spaniards  laid  claim  to  the  territory  of  Florida. 

4.  In    1524,  John  Verrazzani,J   in  the    employment  of 

3.  When  and  by  whom  was  Florida  discovered  ?  By  whom  was  he  com- 
missioned to  plant  a  colony  there  ?  What  became  of  this  colony  ?  Upon 
what  did  the  Spaniards  rest  their  claim  to  Florida  ? 

*  It  was  adopted  as  a  rule  by  the  sovereigns  of  Europe  at  that  time,  and  is  still 
received  asa  principle  of  the  law  of  nations,  that  newly  discovered  countries  belong 
to  the  discoverers. 

t  Juan  Ponce  de  Leon  was  sent  to  conquer  the  island  of  Porto  Rico  ;  and  having 
there  amassed  great  riches,  and  received  information  of  an  island  situated  to  the 
norlh,  in  which'there  was  a  miraculous  fountain  possessing  the  power  of  restoring 
youth  to  the  aged,  he  sailed,  in  1512.  in  quest  of  those  happy  shores.  Although  he 
was  unable  to  find  THE  FOUNTAIN  OF  YOUTH,  he  discovered  the  country,  to 
which  he  gave  the  name  of  Florida,  oj3  account  of  its  blooming  appearance. 

t  John  Verazzani  was  a  native  of  Florence,  Italy.    It  is  worthy  of  remark,  that 


22  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1534 

Francis  I.,*  king  of  France,  sailed  along  the  American  coast 
from  Florida  to  Labrador,  and  named  the  country  New- 
France.  He  made  another  voyage  the  year  following, 
when,  by  some  unknown  disaster,  he  and  all  his  compan- 
ions perished.  In  1534,  the  French  fitted  out  another  expe- 
dition under  James  Cartier.  He  discovered  and  named  the 
gulf  of  St.  Lawrence.  The  year  following,  he  sailed  up  the 
river  of  St.  Lawrence,  as  far  as  Montreal,  and  took  posses- 
sion of  the  country  in  the  name  of  the  French  king.  The 
discoveries  of  Verrazzani  and  Cartier  laid  the  foundation  of 
the  French  claim  in  North  America.  In  1540,  they  at- 
tempted to  plant  a  colony  in  Canada,  but  being  unsuccess- 
ful, they  abandoned  the  enterprise. 

5.  In  1539,  Ferdinand  de  Soto,t  governor  of  Cuba,  landed 
on  the  coast  of  Florida,  with  an  army  of  about  1,200  men. 
He  penetrated  far  into  the  country  in  search  of  gold,  exposed 
to  famine,  hardships,  and  the  opposition  of  the  natives.     In 

4.  In  what  year  did  Veraz.zanni  sail  along  the  American  coast  ?  By  whom 
employed  ?  What  did  he  call  the  country  ?  What  happened  to  him  the  next 
year?  When  and  by  whom  was  another  expedition  made  ?  What  gulf  did 
Cartier  discover  and  name?  Of  what  country  did  he  take  possession  the 
next  year  ?  In  whose  name  ?  What  laid  the  foundation  of  the  French  claims 
in  N.  A.  ?    When  was  an  attempt  made  to  plant  a  colony,  and  with  what 


success 


6.  Who  landed  an  army  on  the  coast  of  Florida  in  1539  ?  What  did  he  do  ? 
What  did  he  discover  in  1541  ?  Where  and  when  did  he  die  ?  What  became 
of  his  followers  ? 

gpaui,  England,  and  France,  owed  their  first  discoveries  in  the  new  world  to  the 
Italians;  a  circumstance  which  clearly  proves  that  in  those  times  no  nation  was 
equal  to  the  Italians  in  point  of  maritime  knowledge  and  extensive  experience  in 
navigation.  It  is,  however,  remarkable,  that  the  Italians,  with  all  their  knowledge 
and  experience,  have  not  been  able  to  acquire  one  inch  of  ground  for  themselves  in 
America.  This  singular  failure  has  been  ascribed  to  the  penurious  mercantile  spirit 
of  the  Italian  republics,  to  their  mutual  animosities  and  petty  wars,  and  to  tneir 
contracted,  .selfish  policy. 

*  Francis  I.,  king  of  France,  called  by  his  subjects  the  ^^  father  of  literature,"  was 
born  in  1494.  He  succeeded  Lewis  XII.,  on  the  French  throne,  in  1515.  He  is 
known  as  the  rival  and  opponent  of  Charles  V.,  emperor  of  Germany,  and  with 
whom  he  was  involved  in  war  during  almo.st  his  whole  reign.  He  was  noted  for 
his  generosity,  clemency,  and  love  of  letters;  and  had  he  been  contented  with  the 
arts  of  peace,  France  would  have  been  happy  and  prosperous  under  his  government. 
He  died  at  Rambouillet  in  1547. 

t  Ferdinand  de  Soto,  a  brave,  gallant,  and  intrepid  officer.  He  served  under 
Pizarro,  in  the  conquest  of  Peru,  with  such  reputation  as  to  obtain  from  the  king 
of  Spain  the  government  of  Cuba.  Desirous  of  wealth  and  renown,  he  left  his  hon- 
orable and  lucrative  station,  and  found  want,  misery,  disease,  and  a  grave  !  To 
conceal  his  death,  his  body  was  wrapped  in  a  mantle,  and  in  the  stillness  of  mid- 
night, was  sunk  in  the  middle  of  the  river.  The  discoverer  of  the  Mississippi  slept 
beneath  its  waters. 


1642. 


DISCOVERIES    IN    AMERICA. 


23 


C  O  V  1:  R  Y     OK     THE     M  I  S  S  I  S  S  I  P  1'  f , 


1341. 


the  spring  of  1541,  he  discovered  the  Mississippi,  about  GOO 
miles  from  its  mouth.  He  continued  his  march  westward 
to  the  Red  river ;  but  disappointed  in  his  search  for  gold,  he 
returned  to  the  Mississippi,  where  he  died.  May  21,  1542. 
His  followers,  after  several  ineffectual  attempts  to  reach 
Mexico  by  land,  built  seven  frail  barks  without  decks,  sailed 
down  the  river  to  its  mouth,  then  steered  for  Mexico,  and 
entered  the  river  Panuco.  Their  numbers  at  that  time  were 
reduced  to  three  hundred  and  eleven. 

6.  During  the  rehgious  wars  in  France,  Admiral  Coligny,* 
the  head  of  the  Protestant  sect  in  that  country,  formed  a 
plan  for  settling  a  colony  of  his  brethren  in  America,  where 

6.  Who  was  Coligny  ?  When  did  he  form  a  plan  for  a  colony  ?  What  was 
the  state  of  France  at  that  time  ?  What  was  his  object  in  settling  a  colony? 
By  whose  permission  was  a  company  sent  ?  Under  whom  ?  Where  did  they 
land  ?  What  happened  the  next  winter  ?  What  was  their  condition  while  on 
their  return  ?  Wliat  became  of  them  at  last  ?  What  was  this  the  first  attempt 
to  do  't. 


'  Gaepard  de  Coligny,  a  celebrated  admiral  of  France,  was  born  in  1516.  He 
bravely  supported  the  cause  of  the  French  Protestants  against  the  Catholics  headed 
by  the  dulte  of  Guise.  After  gaininj?  several  victories  over  the  opposite  party,  he 
was  basely  assassinated  by  one  of  the  domestics  of  the  duke  of  Guise,  in  the  begin- 
ning of  the  horrid  massacre  of  Paris,  on  the  eve  of  St.  Bartholomew's  day,  1.572, 
when  30,000  Protestants  were  inliumanly  butchered. 


24  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1564. 

they  might  be  safe  from  the  persecutions  of  their  enemies. 
By  permission  of  Charles  IX.,*  in  1562,  he  sent  out  two 
ships  under  the  command  of  John  Ribault,  with  a  large 
number  of  colonists,  to  that  part  of  America  called  Florida. f 
They  reached  the  coast  in  the  latitude  of  St.  Augustine  ; 
and  in  May,  discovered  the  St.  John's  river,  which  they 
named  the  river  of  May.  Sailing  northerly  along  the  coast, 
they  at  length  arrived  at  Port  Royal  entrance,  on  the  coast 
of  South  Carolina.  There  they  determined  to  establish  the 
colony.  A  fort  was  erected,  called  Fort  Carolina,  after  the 
name  of  the  king,  in  which  Ribault  left  the  colonists  and 
returned  to  France.  During  the  following  winter  the  set- 
tlers mutinied,  killed  their  commander,  built  and  rigged  a 
rude  vessel,  and  put  to  sea  for  the  purpose  of  returnmg  to 
their  native  country.  Their  little  stock  of  provisions  soon 
failed,  and  they  were  reduced  to  the  dreadful  extremity  of 
killing  and  eating  one  of  their  companions.  In  this  desti- 
tute condition  they  were  taken  up  by  an  English  vessel  and 
carried  to  England.  This  was  the  first  attempt  to  plant  a 
colony  within  the  limits  of  the  United  States. 

7.  In  1564,  another  colony  was  sent  out  by  Coligny, 
under  Laudonnier.  He  proceeded  to  the  river  May,  or  St. 
John's,  and  built  another  fort,  which  was  also  named  Caro- 
lina. Having  planted  his  colony,  he  returned  to  France. 
The  Spaniards,  enraged  at  this  intrusion  on  their  lands  by 


7.  When  and  under  whom  did  Coligny  send  out  another  colony?  "Where 
was  fort  Carolina  built  !  When  was  the  city  of  St.  Augustine  founded  I 
"Which  is  the  oldest  European  settlement  in  the  United  States  ?  What  did 
the  Spaniards  do  ?     What  did  Melendes  do  to  secure  the  country  for  Spain  ? 

*  Charles  IX.,  king  of  France,  was  horn  in  l.')50,  and  ascended  the  throne  at  the 
age  of  10  years,  after  tliedeath  of  his  brother,  Francis  11.  During  his  childliood,  he 
was  guided  by  his  mother,  Catharine  dc  Medicis,  a  woman  of  great  ambition,  but  of 
little  pruileuce  ;  anti  as  the  kiii!j;(iom  was  divided  by  rt  ligious  factious,  nothing  for 
tlic  happiness  of  the  iteoplo,  or  the  glory  of  the  throne,  coidd  he  expected.  In  the 
miilst  of  these  struggles,  Charles  maintained  a  conduct  fidl  of  dissinudation  and 
hypocrisy.  And  while  he  pretended  frieniiship  and  protection  to  all  his  subjects, 
he  was  secretly  meditating  that  fatal  nuissacre  of  St.  Bartholomew,  in  1572,  which 
leaves  an  indelible  stigma  of  barbarous  cruelty  on  liis  name.  He  died  in  1574,  and 
was  succeeded  by  his  lirolht-r,  Henry  111. 

t  For  a  long  time  after  the  discovery  of  the  country,  the  coa.st  from  the  gulf  of 
Mexico  to  Pamlico  sound  was  embraced  under  tin-  name  of  Florida.  It  is  supposed 
by  some,  that  Ribault  left  his  colony  on  the  banks  of  the  Edisto  river,  within  the 
present  limits  of  South  Carolina. 


1583.  .        DISCOVERIES    IN    AMERICA.  26 

heretics,  sent  a  large  force,  under  Don  Pedro  Melendos,  to 
break  up  the  settlement.  He  arrived  on  the  coast  of  Florida 
the  seventeenth  of  September,  1565,  and  entered  a  beautiful 
harbor.  The  next  day  he  took  formal  possession  of  the 
country  in  the  name  of  the  king  of  Spain,  and  laid  the 
foundation  of  St.  Augustine,  the  oldest  city,  and  the  first 
permanent  European  settlement  within  the  limits  of  the 
United  States.  Soon  after,  ho  took  the  fort  and  put  the 
settlers  to  death  in  the  most  barbarous  manner.  To  secure 
the  country  for  Spain^  he  built  three  forts  and  left  them 
garrisoned  by  Spanish  soldiers. 

8.  The  French  government  took  no  notice  of  this  atrocious 
act  of  the  Spaniards.  An  individual,  however,  by  the  name 
of  Ferdinando  Gourges,  a  soldier  of  great  wealth,  indignant 
at  this  outrage,  fitted  out  an  expedition  at  his  own  expense, 
and  sailed  fur  Florida.  By  a  bold  assault,  he  took  the 
Spanish  forts,  and  put  the  garrisons  to  death.*  Not  being  in 
a  situation  to  keep  possession  of  the  country,  Gourges  destroy- 
•ed  the  forts  and  returned  to  France.  Neither  the  French  nor 
Spaniards  ever  after  attempted  a  settlement  at  that  place. 

9.  Sir  Humphrey  Gilbert,  an  enterprising  navigator,  having 
obtained  a  patentf  from  Elizabeth, |  queen  of  England,  in 
1583,  sailed  with  five  ships   to  America.     He  entered  the 


8.  In  view  of  this  outrage,  what  did  Gourges  do  ?  How  did  he  treat  the 
Spaniards? 

9.  When  did  Sir  Humphrey  Gilbert  Hail  for  America?  What  bay  did  ho 
enter  ?  What  did  he  find  there  ?  In  whose  name  did  he  take  pos.se.s.sion  of 
the  country?  Wiiy  was  he  compelled  to  return?  What  became  of  him  and 
his  company  ? 

*  Melendes  hung  on  trees  all  the  Frenchmeu  that  he  captured,  with  a  label  sus- 
pended, "  Not  Frenchmen,  but  heretics."  Gourures,  in  retaliation,  hung  all  the 
Spaniards  tlia,t  he  took,  witli  a  label  si(ruifyin^',  "■  Not  men,  but  (JevilK." 

t  Patent,  or  letters  patent,  a  commiKsion  or  writing  from  the  sovereiffn  power, 
granting  autiiority  to  a  person  to  do  some  act,  or  enjoy  some  right.  Tlie  term  is 
now  applie<l,  in  the  United  States,  to  certificates  issued  from  the  patent  office  at 
Washington,  which  gives  to  the  inventor  of  any  useful  machine  the  exclusive 
advantage  of  his  invention. 

t  Elizabeth,  one  of  the  most  celebrated  sovereigns  of  England,  was  the  daughter 
of  Henry  VIII.,  by  his  rpjeen,  Ann  Boleyn.  Hhe  was  born  in  1.'533,  and  began  her 
reign  in  1.558.  She  was  highly  accomplished  both  in  per.son  and  mind;  and  e.sti- 
mating  her  character  by  the  events  other  reign,  she  will  justly  rank  high  among  tho.se 
who  have  sat  on  the  English  throne.  Under  her  ans|»ices,  the  I'rotcstant  religion 
was  first  e.slablifihed  ;  liicfions  rejjresscd  ;  the  government  slniigtheiied  ;  a  navy 
Created  ;  commerce  rendered  flourishing  ;  and  the  national  charactir  aggrandized. 
She  died  in  1602,  and  was  succeeded  by  James  VI.  of  Scotland  and  I.  of  England. 

3 


26  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1585. 

bay  of  St.  John's,  in  Newfoundland,  where  he  found  thirty- 
six  fishing  vessels.  Here  he  landed  and  took  possession  of 
the  country  in  the  name  of  his  sovereign,  and  made  some 
preparations  for  establishing  a  colony ;  but  being  in  want  of 
provisions,  he  and  his  company  were  compelled  to  return. 
On  their  way  back,  the  vessel  in  which  he  sailed  foundered, 
and  all  on  board  perished. 

10.  In  1584,  Sn-  Walter  Raleigh*  obtained  from  Eliza- 
beth a  patent  similar  to  the  one  granted  to  Gilbert.  Under 
this  commission  he  sent  out  two  ships  to  America,  com- 
manded by  Amidas  and  Barlow,  to  examine  the  countiy 
they  intended  to  settle.  They  landed  at  Roanoke,  and 
spent  some  weeks  in  trafficking  with  the  natives,  by  whom 
they  were  received  with  the  greatest  respect  and  hospitality. 
On  their  return,  they  gave  so  flattering  an  account  of  the 
country,  that  the  queen  called  it  Virginia.!  This  name 
was  afterward  applied  to  the  whole  coast. 

11.  In  1585,  Raleigh  sent  out  a  squadron  of  seven  ships, 
carrying  107  persons,  and  every  thing  necessary  to  begin  a 
settlement,  under  Sir  Richard  Grenville.  He  left  them  on 
Roanoke  island,  under  the  care  of  Ralph  Lane,  and  returned 
to  England.  The  settlers,  however,  instead  of  cultivating 
the  ground,  spent  their  time  in  searching  for  mines  of  gold 
and  silver.  On  account  of  their  lawless  conduct  while 
rambling  through  the  country,  many  were  destroyed  by  the 


10.  When  did  Raleigh  obtain  a  patent  ?  Who  were  sent  out  under  this 
commission  ?  Where  did  they  land  ?  How  were  they  treated  by  the  natives  ? 
What  was  the  country  called  on  their  return  ?  In  honor  of  whom  ?  See  note. 
To  what  was  this  name  afterward  applied  ? 

11,  When  did  Raleigh  send  out  another  colony?  Where  did  he  leave 
them  ?  What  did  they  do  ?  What  became  of  many  of  them  ?  What  of  the 
survivors  ?     Who  arrived  shortly  after  ?     What  did  he  do  ? 

*  Sir  Walter  Raleigh,  (Raw-le,)  a  distinguished  warrior,  statesman,  and  writer) 
•was  born  in  Uevonshire,  in  1552.  He  performed  eminent  services  for  Queen  Eliza- 
beth, particularly  in  the  discoverv  of  the  country  now  called  Virginia,  and  in  the 
defeat  of  the  Spanish  Armada.  He  lived  in  great  honor  and  happiness  during  her 
reign.  But  his  sun  set  at  her  death.  On  the  accession  of  James  I.  he  was  much 
persecuted,  and  accused  of  high  treason.  Though  reprieved,  he  remained  a  pris- 
oner twelve  years  in  the  tower  of  London.  He  Avas  afterward  commissioned  to 
Ro  and  explore  the  gold  mines  of  Guiana ;  but  shortly  after  his  return  he  was  basely 
condemned  on  his  former  sentence  of  treason,  and  beheaded  in  1618.  He  is  said  to 
have  first  introduced  toliacco  into  Europe. 

t  Virginia  signifies  the  land  of  a  virgin^  so  called  in  honor  of  the  nirgin  or  un- 
married Queen  Ehzabeth. 


1G02.  DISCOVERIES    IN    AMERICA.  27. 

Indians,  and  others  perished  with  hunger.  Reduced  to 
great  distress  for  want  of  provisions,  the  survivors  were 
taken  to  England  by  Sir  Francis  Drake,*  on  his  return  from 
the  West  Indies.  Shortly  after  their  departure,  Sir  Richard 
Grenville  arrived  with  ample  supphes  of  men  and  provisions. 
Not  finding  the  former  colony,  he  left  fifteen  of  his  crew  to 
retain  possession  of  the  island,  and  returned  to  England. 

12.  In  1587,  Raleigh,  not  discouragad  by  his  ill  success, 
dispatched  three  vessels,  under  the  command  of  Capt. 
White,  with  150  men.  On  their  arrival  at  Roanoke,  the 
little  company  left  by  Grenville  was  not  to  be  found.  They 
probably  had  been  killed  by  the  Indians.  White  left  117 
persons,  and  returned  to  England  to  obtain  farther  supplies. 
Buf  in  consequence  of  the  war  then  existing  between  that 
country  and  Spain,  three  years  elapsed  before  any  supplies 
were  sent  to  the  colony.  When  they  arrived,  no  vestige  of 
the  settlers  remained.  All  had  perished.  Thus  ended  the 
exertions  of  Raleigh  to  plant  a  colony  in  America. 

13.  Discouraged  by  these  successive  misfortunes,  the 
English  for  some  years  made  no  further  attempt  to  plant  a 
colony  in  the  new  world.  In  1G02,  Bartholomew  Gosnold 
made  a  voyage,  discovered  and  named  Cape  Cod,t  landed 
on  the  coast,  and  visited  the  adjacent  islands.  After  trading 
some  time  with  the  Indians,  he  returned  and  gave  so  favor- 
able an  account  of  the  country,  that  a  more  extensive  plan 
of  colonization  was  devised  than  had  before  been  attempted. 

14.  By  the  influence  of  Richard  Hakluyt,t  nn  association 

12.  What  was  done  in  1.587?  What  probably  became  of  those  left  by 
Grenville  ?  What  did  White  do  ?  How  long  before  supplies  were  sent  to  the 
colony  ?     What  had  become  of  the  settlers  in  the  mean  time  ? 

13.  How  were  the  Englkh  affected  by  these  misfortunes?  When  did  Gos- 
nold make  a  voyage  ?  What  did  he  discover  ?  On  his  return,  what  took 
place  ? 

*  Sir  Francis  Drake,  a  distinguished  naval  hero,  was  born  in  Devonshire,  Eng- 
land, 154.5.  He  made  his  name  immortal  by  a  voyage  into  the  Pacific  ocear^through 
the  straits  of  Magellan,  and  by  completing  a  voyage  round  the  globe.  lie  was  dis- 
tinguished for  his  expeditions  and  victories  over  the  Spaniards.  He  died,  after 
having  rendered  the  most  eminent  services  to  his  country  by  hi.s  bravery  and  sicill, 
in  1.597,  on  board  of  his  own  ship,  in  the  West  Indies.  He  first  introduced  potatoes 
into  Kurope  from  South  America. 

t  When  Gosnold  arrived  near  this  cape,  in  1602,  he  caught  a  great  quantity  of  cod- 
fish, and  from  this  circumstance  he  named  it  Cape  Cod. 

t  Richard  Hakloyt  was  born  in  England,  in  1553.    He  was  famous  for  his  knowl- 


28  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1603. 

of  gentlemen  was  formed  for  the  purpose  of  establishing 
colonies  in  America.  Upon  their  application  to  King  James,* 
in  1606,  he  divided  the  territory  lying  between  the  34th  and 
the  45th  degrees  of  north  latitude,  extending  from  Cape 
Fear  to  Halifax,  into  two  districts,  called  JVorth  and  South 
Virpinia.  The  latter  extended  from  the  34th  to  the  38th 
degree  of  north  latitude,  or  from  Cape  Fear  to  the  southern 
limit  of  JVhirjland,  and  the  former  from  the  41st  to  the  45th 
degrees  of  north  latitude.  He  established  two  companies, 
likewise,  for  the  purpose  of  making  settlements  in  those 
districts,  called  the  London  and  Plymouth  companies. 
South  Virginia  was  granted  to  the  London  Company,  and 
North  Virginia  to  the  Plymouth  Company.  The  interme- 
diate district  between  North  and  South  Virginia  from  38  to 
41  degrees,  was  open  to  the  competition  of  both  companies. 
15.  In  1603,  Henrj^  IV.,t  king  of  France,  granted  to  De 
Monts,  a  gentleman  of  distinction,  the  sole  jurisdiction  of  the 
country  called  Acadia,  extending  from  the  fortieth  to  the 

14.  By  whose  influence  was  an  association  formed?  For  what  purpose? 
How  did  King  .lames  divide  America  ?  What  two  companies  did  he  estab- 
lish ?     To  which  was  North  Virginia  granted  >     'Vo  which  South  ? 

15,  16.  When  did  the  king  of  Franco  grant  Acadia  to  De  Monts  ?  When  and 
where  was  the  settlement  made  ?  When  was  Quebec  founded  ?  How  did 
these  French  possessions  affect  the  English  colonies  .' 

edge  of  the  naval  history  of  his  country.  He  published  a  collection  of  voyages  and 
discoveries,  which  had  a  happy  influence  in  turning  the  attention  of  the  nation  to 
maritime  atTairs.     He  died  in  IGIG,  and  was  buried  in  Westminster  abbey,  London. 

*  James  I.  of  England  and  VI.  of  Scotlaml  was  the  son  of  Mary,  queeii  of  Scots, 
so  famous  for  her  beaiuy,  wit,  learning,  and  mistoriunes.  He  was  born  at  Edin- 
burgh castle,  in  1566.  The  following  year,  his  mother  being  forced  to  relinquish 
the  throne,  he  was  solemnly  crowned  at  Stirling,  with  the  title  of  James  VI.  of  Scot- 
land. On  the  death  of  Queen  Elizabeth,  in  10(i;{,  he  succeeded  to  the  crown  of  Eng- 
land under  the  title  of  James  1.  Several  conspiracies  were  formed  to  destroy  him 
and  overturn  the  government,  the  most  noted  of  which  was  the  famous  gunpowder 
plot,  concerted  in  161)5.  the  objecr  of  which  was  to  blow  up  the  king  and  parliament. 
See  the  Easy  Keaiier.  puge  65.  During  his  reign,  thi  Bible  was  translated  into 
English.  He  died  in  \&2'\  and  was  succeeded  by  Charles  I.  James  was  not  desti- 
tute of  abilities  or  good  intentions,  but  owing  to  his  vanity  and  weakness  of  temper, 
lie  was  neither  bt  loved  ut  home,  nor  respected  abroad. 

t  Henry  IV.  of  France  was  born  at  Pan  in  155;3.  His  riirht  to  the  throne  was  dis- 
puted bacausehe  wasa  Protestant.  After  the  massacre  of  St.  Uarlholomew,  in  1572, 
he  signalized  himself  as  a  .soldier  and  general,  and  gained  several  victories  over  his 
enemies.  Convinced  that  he  should  never  enjoy  quiet  possession  of  the  Fi-ench 
throne  without  professing  the  Catholic  faith,  he  embraced  that  religion  in  1593,  and 
was  solemnly  anointed  king  at  Chartres  in  1594.  Having  overcome  the  toreign  ene- 
mies of  his  country,  he  succeeded  in  restoring  the  internal  prosperity  of  his  kingdom. 
He  paid  330  millions  of  the  national  debt,  and  laid  up  40  millions  in  the  treasury.  He 
sought  by  every  means  in  his  power  to  render  his  subjects  prosperous  and  happy. 
But  notwithstanding  this,  several  conspiracies  were  formed  to  overtlirow  the  gov- 


1C08.  DISCOVERIES    IN    AMERICA.  29 

forty-sixth  degree  of  north  latitude,  or  from  Delaware  bay  to 
the  gulf  of  St.  Lawrence.  The  next  year,  Dc  Monts  sailed 
with  two  vessels,  and  arrived  on  the  coast  of  Nova  Scotia  in 
May.  After  spending-  some  time  in  examining  the  coasts, 
and  trafficking  with  the  natives,  he  erected  a  fort  on  an 
island  at  the  rnouth  of  the  St.  Croix  river,  and  there  passed 
the  winter.  The  spring  following,  he  formed  a  settlement 
in  Nova  Scotia,  near  the  bay  of  Fundy,  which  he  named 
Port  Royal — now  called  Annapolis.  This  was  the  first  per- 
manent settlement  of  the  French  in  AiTierica. 

IG.  In  1608.  De  Monts  fitted  out  two  vessels  for  the  pur- 
pose of  forming  a  settlement  in  Acadia,  and  placed  thern 
under  the  command  of  Samuel  Charnplain,  an  experienced  nav- 
igator and  able  commander.  Charnplain  sailed  from  France 
in  April,  and  in  June  ascended  the  St.  Lawrence,  and  laid  the 
foundation  of  the  city  of  Gluebec.  These  possessions  of  t?ie 
French  proved  the  source  of  innumerable  calamities  to  the 
English  colonies,  until  the  peace  of  1763.  between  France 
and  Enjrland. 


ernmerit,  and  it  is  gaid  twenty-two  attempts  were  made  to  aBeasRJnate  him.  bat  with- 
out effiict.  On  a  certain  day,  in  1010,  however,  an  he  waK  ridin!^  through  the  streetfl 
of  Parif.  his  coaf;h  was  obblrucfed  by  two  wagons.  A  fanatic  named  Ravaillac  took 
advantas'e  of  this  moment  tf»  perpetrate  a  lonfr-meditated  d'.ed.  He  mounted  the 
step  of  the  coach,  and  plunged  a  long  two-tfli^ed  knife  twice  into  the  heart  of  Henry, 
and  thus  ended  the  career  of  the  best  king  France  ever  liad.  The  benevolent  mind 
of  Henry,  his  paternal  love  to  hig  subjects,  his  great  achievements,  his  candor,  and 
sincerity,  have  preserved  his  memory  in  the  hearts  of  the  nation,  and  his  royal  ex- 
pression, "I  wish  that  every  peasant  mit'ht  have  a  fowl  in  his  pot  on  Hundavs." 
stili  lives  in  the  mouth.s  of  the  people.  Ravaillac,  his  murderer,  was  put  to  death  by 
the  moat  excruciating  tortures. 

3* 


HISTORY 


THE  UNITED  STATES, 


SITUATION     OF     AMERICA     IN     A.D.     1607. 


PERIOD   II. 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  settlement  of  Jamestown, 
1607,  to  the  Declaration  of  Independence,  1776. 

1.  Soon  after  the  London  Company  had  obtamed  their 
charter,  they  sent  three  ships  to  America,  under  the  com- 
mand of  Capt.  Newport,  with  one  hundred  and  five  persons, 

What  events  are  comprised  in  period  second '!  "What  was  the  situation  of 
the  country  in  1607?     What  is  represented  by  the  cut? 

1.  What  is  said  of  the  London  Company?  For  what  place  did  they  sail  ? 
When  and  where  was  the  first  English  settlement  made  ?  What  was  it 
called,  and  how  long  was  this  after  the  settlement  of  Florida  by  the  Spaniards  ? 
See  page  25,  v.  7. 


160Y.  SETTLEMENT    OF    VIRGINIA.  31 

and  every  thing  necessary  for  establishing  a  colony.  They 
sailed  for  Roanoke,  but  were  fortunately  driven  by  a  storm 
into  Chesapeake  bay.  They  were  so  much  pleased  with 
the  surrounding  country,  that  they  determined  to  settle  on 
the  river  Powhattan,  which  they  named  James  river.  On 
the  23d  of  May,  1607,  they  landed  and  began  a  settlement, 
and  in  honor  of  their  sovereign,  called  it  Jamestown.*  This 
was  the  first  permanent  English  settlement  in  America. 

2.  The  colonists  soon  began  to  experience  various  calam- 
ities, many  of  which  they  had  not  anticipated.  Disputes 
and  jealousies  arose  among  their  rulers. f  They  suffered 
much  from  want  of  provisions,  disease,  and  the  hostility  of 
the  Indians.  In  less  than  four  months  from  the  time  of  their 
landing  fifty  of  their  number  had  perished.  Discouraged  by 
these  afflictions,  they  were  anxious  to  return  to  England. 

3.  In  this  state  of  despondency,  one  of  their  numbet, 
named  John  Smith,}:  a  very  extraordinary  man,  undertook  to 
manage  the  affairs   of  the  colonjr.     He  established   order 

2.  What  did  the  colonists  soon  experience?  What  arose  among  their 
rulers?  From  what  causes  did  they  suffer?  How  soon  had  fifty  of  their 
number  perished? 

*  Jamestown,  on  James  river,  thirty-two  miles  above  its  mouth.  It  is  now  in 
ruins,  and  almost  desolate.  Two  or  three  old  houses,  the  ruins  of  an  old  steeple,  a 
churchyard,  and  faint  marks  of  a  rude  fortifications,  are  the  only  memorials  of  its 
former  importance. 

t  The  government  of  the  colony  was  formed  in  England  before  it  sailed.  It  was  to 
consist  of  a  president  and  a  council  of  seven  persons.  The  names  of  these  persons, 
and  the  code  of  laws  lor  the  government  of  the  colony,  were  carefully  concealed  in  a 
box,  and  given  to  Capt.  Newport,  at  the  time  of  sailing,  with  orders  not  to  open  it 
until  twenty-four  hours  after  landing.  It  was  opened  oh  the  24th  of  May,  and  found 
to  contain  the  names  of  Bartholomew  Gosnold,  John  Smith,  Edward  Wingfield, 
Christopher  Newport,  John  Ratcliffe,  John  Martin,  and  George  Kendall.  Mr.  Wing- 
field,  an  unprincipled,  ambitious  man,  was  chosen  president,  but  was  soon  after  de- 
posed for  misconduct,  and  John  Ratcliffe  chosen  in  his  place. 

X  Capt.  John  Smith,  the  father  of  Virginia,  was  born  at  Willoughby,  in  Lincoln- 
shire, England,  in  1579.  From  his  earliest  youth  he  displayed  a  roving  disposition, 
and  was  delighted  with  bold  and  adventurous  feats  among  his  companions.  At  the 
age  of  thirteen  he  was  apprenticed  to  a  merchant,  but  quit  his  master  in  his  fifteenth 
year,  and  traveled  through  France,  Netherlands,  Egypt,  and  Germany.  He  after- 
ward entered  into  the  service  of  the  emperor  of  Austria  against  the  Turks.  By  his 
skill,  bravery,  and  exploits,  he  obtained  the  command  of  250  honsemen.  At  the 
siege  of  Regal,  the  Turks  sent  a  challenge  to  the  Austrians,  stating,  that  the  lord 
Turbisha,  for  the  diversion  of  the  ladies  of  the  place,  would  fight  any  single  captain 
of  the  Christian  troops.  Smith  accepted  the  challenge,  and  meeting  his  antagonist 
on  horseback,  in  view  of  the  ladies  on  the  battlements,  killed  him,  and  bore  away  his 
head  in  triumph  to  his  general.  Crualgo,  a  friend  of  Turbisha,  upon  this  sent  a  par- 
ticular challenge  to  Smith.  He  at  once  accepted  it.  They  met,  and  Smith  was 
again  the  victor ;  he  bore  off  his  head  in  triumph.  Smith  now  sent  a  message  into 
ihe  town,  informing  the  ladies  that  if  they  wished  for  more  sport  of  a  similar  kind, 


82  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  160S. 

among  them,  built  comfortable  houses  for  them  to  live  in, 
fortified  their  little  settlement,  procured  provisions  of  the  na- 
tives, and  inspired  all  with  confidence.  Thus  the  settlers 
were  able  to  subsist  until  they  received  assistance  from 
England. 

4.  In  1608,  Capt.  Newport  arrived  with  120  new  settlers, 
and  a  supply  of  provisions.  This  was  a  source  of  great  joy 
to  the  httle  colony.  But  their  prospects  were  soon  overcast ; 
for  about  this  time  they  discovered  in  the  bed  of  a  small 
river  near  Jamestown,  a  shining  substance  which  they  sup- 
posed to  be  gold-dust.  A  sort  of  universal  phrensy  was  ex- 
cited by  this  discovery.  "  Immediately,"  says  Smith,  "  there 
was  no  thought,  no  discourse,  no  hope,  and  no  work,  but  to 
dig  gold,  wash  gold,  refine  gold,  and  load  gold."  Smith 
used  all  his  influence  to  convince  them  of  their  folly ;  but  to 
no  purpose.  A  vessel  was  loaded  with  this  useless  commo- 
dity, and  sent  to  England.  On  its  arrival  there,  the  cargo 
was  examined,  and  found  to  be  nothing  but  mud,  filled  with 
small  pieces  of  shining  stone. 

3.  Can  you  give  some  account  of  John  Smith  ?  See  note.  What  did  he  do 
for  the  colony  ? 

4.  Who  arrived  in  1608?  What  occurred  about  this  time?  What  does 
Smith  say  ?  What  did  tlie  people  do  ?  What  did  it  prove  to  be  ?  Is  that  all 
gold  which  shines  or  glistens  ? 

they  must  procure  another  champion.  Bonamalgro  soon  appeared,  and  after  a 
short  but  severe  contest,  in  which  bmith  nearly  lost  his  life,  the  huge  Turk  was  slain, 
and  his  head  was  added  to  the  number  of  the  others.  He  was  afterward  taken  pris- 
oner bv  the  Turks;  but  by  killmg  his  master,  he  escaped  into  Russia,  and  returned 
to  England.  He  joined  the  expedition  lifted  out  by  the  London  Company,  to  make  a 
settlement  in  America,  and  was  named  as  one  of  the  council  of  the  colony.  On  their 
passage  to  America,  disputes  arose  among  the  emigrants,  and  by  his  superior  talents, 
Smith  excited  the  envy  of  the  principal  persons  on  board,  and  he  was  unjustly  con- 
fined and  kept  a  close  prisoner  during  the  rest  of  the  voyage.  After  the  planting  of 
the  colony  at  Jamestown,  he  was  released  from  confinement,  but  excluded  from 
the  council.  He  was  afterward  tried,  and  lionoi'ably  acquitted  of  all  the  charges 
brought  against  him,  and  admitted  to  his  seat  as  a  meinber  of  the  council.  After  the 
election  of  Ratcliffe,  the  whole  weight  of  the  administration  devolved  on  Smith,  and 
all  would  have  perished  with  hunger,  but  for  his  exertions  in  procuring  corn  of  the 
Indians.  This  he  obtained,  sometimes  by  purchase,  sometimes  by  caresses,  and  olten 
by  stratagem  and  force.  Unable  to  procure  corn  on  a  certain  occasion,  he  seized 
the  Indian  idol  Okee,  made  of  skins  stutfed  with  moss  ;  for  the  redemption  of  which 
as  much  corn  was  brought  to  him  as  he  demanded.  He  often  made  long  excursions 
into  the  wilderness  for  the  purpose  of  exploring  the  country,  and  procuring  corn  of 
the  natives.  In  one  of  these,  attended  only  by  an  Indian  guide,  he  was  suddenly  sur- 
rounded by  a  numerous  body  of  savages,  and  after  a  brave  defense,  was  taken  pris- 
oner. His  exulting  captors  conducted  him  in  triumph  to  Powhattan,  the  principal 
chieftain  of  Virginia.  After  many  ceremonies  and  consultations,  they  decided  to 
put  him  to  death.    They  looked  upon  him  as  a  man  wkose  courage  and  abilities 


1609.  .      SETTLEMENT    OF   VIRGINIA.  33 

5.  In  consequence  of  their  neglecting  to  cultivate  the 
ground,  they  suffered  much,  the  following  winter,  from  want 
of  provisions,  and  from  disease.  Their  storehouse  was  acci- 
dentally burned,  and  they  were  reduced  to  great  distress. 
The  next  year  they  received  a  supply  of  necessaries,  and 
seventy  new  settlers  were  added  to  their  number ;  among 
whom  were  several  persons  of  distinction. 

6.  In  1609,  the  London  Company  obtained  a  new  charter, 
granting  greater  powers  and  privileges  than  the  former. 
They  soon  after  sent  out  nine  ships,  with  nine  hundred  emi- 
grants, to  Virginia.  The  vessel,  on  board  of  which  were  the 
officers  appointed  to  govern  the  colony,  was  unfortunately 
driven  by  a  storm  upon  the  Bermuda  islands.*  The  others 
arrived  safely.  Most  of  the  persons  who  came  in  these 
were  of  a  vicious  character.  They  at  first  refused  to  submit 
to  the  authority  of  Smith,  and  by  this  means  threw  the 
colony  into  great  confusion.  Smith  determined,  however, 
that  he  would  be  obeyed  until  the  arrival  of  the  officers  that 
were  appointed  to  succeed  him.  He  accordingly  seized  upon 
the  leaders  of  the  sedition,  and  put  them  in  prison.  By  this 
means  order  was  again  restored. 

5.  How  was  the  colony  affected  by  this  conduct  ?  What  happened  the  next 
year? 

6.  What  took  place  in  1609?  What  did  they  do  soon  after?  What  hap- 
pened to  one  vessel  ?     Who  were  on  board  ?     What  is  said  of  the  others  ? 

What  of  Smith? 


were  particularly  dangerous  to  the  safety  of  the  Indians.  He  was  accordingly  led 
forth  to  exectition.  His  head  was  placed  upon  a  stone,  and  a  war-club  presented  to 
Powhattan,  who  claimed  the  honor  of  beiu":  his  executioner.  As  the  chief  raised 
the  club  to  give  the  fatal  blow,  Pocahontas,  his  favorite  daughter,  rushed  through 
the  crowd,  and  clasped  the  head  of  Smith  in  her  arms,  laid  her  own  upon  it,  and  en- 
treated her  father  to  spare  his  life.  Powhattan  was  amazed.  His  heart  was 
touched.  He  let  fall  the  club,  and  set  Smith  at  liberty,  and  soon  after  had  him  con- 
ducted in  safety  to  .Jamestown.  Smith  was  several  times  chosen  president  of  the 
council,  and  by  his  example  and  severity  he  rendered  the  colonists  exceedingly  in- 
dustrious. Several  young  gentlemen  in  the  colony,  indignant  that  //tey  should  be 
compelled  to  work,  often  gave  vent  to  their  feelings  in  expressions  of  impatience 
and  profanensss.  Smith  caused  the  numbei:  of  their  oaths  to  be  noted  daily,  and  at 
night  he  had  as  many  cans  of  water  poured  into  the  sleeve  of  each,  as  he  had  taken 
oaths  during  the  day.  This  discipline  had  so  hapny  an  effect  that  scarcely  an  oath 
was  heard  in  a  week,  and  it  perfectly  restored  the  subjects  of  it  to  good  humor. 
After  many  other  adventures,  Smith  died  in  London,  in  1651,  in  the  52d  year  of  his 
age.     For  all  his  services  and  sufferings  he  never  received  any  recompense. 

'  Bermuda  islands,  a  cluster  of  small  islands  in  the  Atlantic  ocean.  They  are  in 
number  about  400,  but  most  of  them  so  small  and  barren,  that  they  have  neither  in- 
habitant nor  name.  They  were  first  discovered  by  Juan  Bermudas,  a  Spaniard,  in 
1522.    The  air  is  so  healthy  that  sick  people  from  the  United  States  frequently  go 


S4 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1609. 


POCAHONTAS    H  A.  S  T  K  N  1  NO     TO     1  N  K  0  K  M    SMITH    (IF    T  H  i:    C  (1  N  S  P  I  K  \  C  Y  . 

7.  About  this  time,  the  Indians,  fearing  that  the  white 
people  would  become  too  powerful,  concerted  a  plot  to  destroy 
them  all.     Pocahontas*  heard  of  it,  and  resolved  to  save 


7.  What  did  the  Indians  fear?  What  did  tliry  do?  How  was  the  colony 
saved  ?  Caii  you  give  some  account  of  the  life  and  ohaiaotor  of  Pocahontas  ? 
See  note. 


Uiither  for  the  recovery  of  their  health.  The  winter  is  hardly  perceptible,  and  the 
seasons  may  be  said  to  be  perpetual  spring.  The  inhabitants  gather  two  crops  of 
Indian  coin  in  a  year,  one  in  July,  and  the  other  in  December.  These  islands  he 
abovu  r>00  miles  irom  Cape  Fear,  in  North  Carolina.     I'opulation  about  S(XX). 

*  Pocahontas,  duujihter  of  Powhattan,  a  celebrated  Indian  Avarrior,  in  Virginia, 
was  born  about  15'.)").  She  discovered  the  warmest  tVieuilship  fur  the  Englisirwho 
colouized  Virijinia,  and  was  en\iueutly  useful  to  the  seiileiuent.  The  first  remarka- 
ble instance  of  this  attachment  was  displayeil  in  U'H)8,  iu  |neserving  the  life  of  Cnpt. 
John  Smith,  as  explained  iu  a  previous  note.  Fnun  this  time  she  frequently  visited 
the  settlements  olthe  whites,  to  whom  she  furuislied  provisiout;  ai  tinu^s  when  they 
were  particularly  ueedeil.  In  1612,  Pocahontas  liavinir  iucuried  the  resentnu>nt  of 
her  father,  probably  on  accoinit  of  her  attachmeul  to  the  whites,  lelt  her  home, 
and  visited  the  territories  of  .lopazows,  chief  of  the  Potomacs.  Capt.  Ariroll,  having 
s;iiled  up  the  Potomac  river,  on  a  trading  voyage,  prevailed  ou  .lopazows,  by  the 
tempting  otler  of  a  copper  kettle,  to  surrender  her  to  him.  He  detained  and  carried 
her  to  Jamestown,  presuming  that  Powhattan  would  do  no  hurt  to  the  English 
while  they  retained  possession  of  his  daughter.  Hut  the  noble  hearted  chief  feU  in- 
dignant at  the  treachery  of  the  whites,  and  refuseil  to  listen  to  any  terms  of  peace 
till  Pocahijntas  Avas  restored  During  iier  detention  at  Jatnestown,  Mr.  Thomas 
Rolfe,  an  Englishman  of  respectable  character,  became  aft.iched  to  her.  and  ottered 
her  his  hand.  It  was  accepted,  ami  the  consent  of  Powhattan  being  obtained,  the 
marriage  was  solemnized  with  great  pomp,  in  presence  of  the  \uu-le  of  Pocahontas, 
and  her  two  brothers.  This  event  relieved  the  colony  iVom  the  enmity  of  Powhat- 
tan, and  preserved  peace  between  them  for  many  years.  In  UilG,  she  embarked 
with  her  husband  lor  England.    She  was  received  by  the  king  and  queen  with  the 


10 11.  .       SETTLEMENT    OF    VIRGINIA.  35 

thorn.  Accordingly,  one  dark  and  storrny  nig"ht,  she  has- 
tened to  Jamestown,  anrl  informed  Smith  of  his  danger.  He 
immediately  took  measures  to  put  the  colony  in  a  state  of 
defense.  The  Indians,  perceiving  that  their  design  was  dis- 
covered, gave  up  the  project. 

8.  Soon  after,  Smith  received  a  severe  wound,  and  returned 
to  England  to  procure  the  aid  of  a  surgeon.  The  most  un- 
happy consequences  followed.  The  Indians  perceiving  the 
absense  of  the  man  they  feared,  attacked  the  colony  with 
united  forces.  They  cut  off  all  supphes,  and  thus  reduced 
the  settlers  to  the  greatest  extremity. 

9.  Such  was  their  wretched  condition,  that  they  devoured 
the  skins  of  their  horses,  the  bodies  of  the  Indians  they 
had  killed,  and  at  last  the  flesh  of  their  dead  companions. 
'I'his  period  was  long  remembered  by  the  name  of  "  the 
STARVING  Ti.ME."  In  six  mooths  their  number  was  reduced 
from  more  than  five  hundred  to  sixty ;  and  these  feeble  and 
dejected.  While  the  colonists  were  in  this  situation,  the 
persons  who  had  been  wrecked  on  the  Bermudas  arrived. 

10.  All  immediately  determined  to  return  to  England. 
For  this  purpose  they  embarked  and  sailed  down  the  river. 
Fortunately,  however,  they  were  met  by  Lord  Delaware, 
w?io  had  been  appointed  governor  of  Virginia,  with  supplies 
of  men  and  provisions.  He  persuaded  them  to  return  to 
Jamestown,  and  by  a  judicious  exercise  of  authority,  he  re- 
stored order  anrl  contentment,  and  for  several  years  the  affairs 
of  the  colony  continued  in  a  prosperous  condition. 

11.  In  1611,  Lord  Delaware,  in  consequence  of  ill  health. 


8.  What  is  said  of  Smith  soon  after?     What  was  the  consequence  ?     What 
did  the  Indians  do? 

9.  What  was  the  condition  of  the  colony?     What  was  this  period  called? 
How  much  was  their  number  reduced  ?     What  happened  now? 

10.  What  did  they  all  do  ?     Whom  did  they  meet  ?     Wliat  did  he  do  ? 

1 1 .  W'hat  took  place  in  IGl I  ?     What  is  said  with  regard  to  private  property  1 
The  effect  of  this  plan  ? 

attention  due  to  her  rank.  While  in  London  she  received  a  visit  from  her  former 
frienrl,  Capt.  Smith.  Her  residence  among  civilized  men  was  rlestined,  however,  to 
be  short.  While  about  to  emb.'irk  from  Gravesend,  witli  her  hu.sbarirj,  and  an  infant 
son.  to  return  to  Virginia,  ?tie  'Ik-A  at  the  atfe  of  twenty-two.  Her  son  was  educated 
m  London,  and  from  him  are  descfended  sc^me  of  the  mo^  respectable  families  in 
Virginia. 


36  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1619. 

returned  to  England,  and  was  succeeded  by  Sir  Thomas 
Dale.  Public  authority  was  now  rigidly  enforced-  Hith- 
erto no  right  of  private  property  inland  had  been  established. 
The  fields  that  had  been  cleared  were  cultivated  by  the 
joint  labor  of  the  whole,  and  the  produce  w\is  deposited  in 
public  stores,  and  shared  in  common.  This  plan  of  pro- 
ceeding presented  but  few  inducements  to  industry.  The 
idle  and  improvident  trusted  entirely  to  what  was  distributed 
from  the  common  stores. 

12.  To  remedy  these  evils.  Sir  Thomas  divided  a  consid- 
erable portion  of  land  into  lots  of  three  acres  each,  and 
granted  one  of  these  to  each  individual,  to  be  his  own 
property.  The  happy  effects  of  this  measure  were  soon  so 
manifest,  that  another  assignment  of  fifty  acres  to  each  one 
■was  made,  and  the  plan  of  working  in  a  common  field  was 
entirely  abandoned.  From  this  time  the  colony  rapidly  in- 
creased and  improved.  In  1616,  they  began  to  cultivate 
tobacco,  a  plant  which  was  first  found  in  that  soil,  and 
became  the  great  staple  of  Virginia. 

13.  Thus  far  the  afiairs  of  the  colony  had  been  managed 
by  a  governor  and  council,  appointed  by  the  London  Com- 
pany, and  from  1611  they  had  been  under  martial  law,  like 
a  garrison  of  soldiers.  13ut  the  people  had  become  dissatis- 
fied with  this  state  of  things.  They  longed  to  enjoy  the 
rights  and  privileges  to  which  they  had  been  accustomed  in 
their  native  country.  To  gratify  this  noble  desire  of  the 
colonists,  governor  Yeardley,  in  1619,  called  a  general  assem- 
bly, consisting  of  representatives  from  the  several  plantations 
or  boroughs.  It  met  at  Jamestown  on  the  19th  of  .Tune,  and 
was  the  first  legislative  assembly  ever  held  in  America. 

14.  The  colony  hitherto  consisted  almost  entirely  of  men 
who  came  f(5r  the  purpose  of  acquiring  wealth,  and  who  in- 
tended to  return  airain  to  England.     But  in  order  to  attach 


12.  What  was  done  to  remedy  these  evils?  The  effect  of  this  measure? 
Tobacco — when  first  cultivated  ?    Where  found  ? 

13.  How  had  the  colony  been  governed  tlms  far  ?  How  from  1611  ?  Were 
the  people  satisfied?  What  was  dcnie  in  1019?  What  met  this  year? 
Where  ?  What  is  the  object  of  such  an  assembly  ?  Ans.  To  make  laws,  and 
regulate  all  civil  affairs. 

14.  What  was  true  of  the  colony  hitherto  ?  What  was  done  to  attach  the 
men  to  the  soil  ?    The  price  of  a  wife  ? 


1622. 


SETTLEMENT    OF   VIRGINIA. 


37 


NINETY     OIIILS     LM'OSED     FOR     SALE 


them  more  to  the  soil,  and  to  induce  them  to  regard  this  as  their 
home — the  abode  of  their  posterity — in  1620,  the  company 
sent  over  ninety  girls,  to  be  disposed  of  among  the  young 
planters  for  wives.  At  first,  the  price  of  a  wife  was  one 
hundred  pounds  of  tobacco,  but  the  demand  for  them  in- 
creased so  much,  that  it  soon  rose  to  one  hundred  and  sixty 
pounds. 

15.  The  same  year,  a  Dutch  vessel  arrived  at  Jamestown 
with  twenty  Africans,  and  offered  them  for  sale  as  slaves. 
They  were  purchased  by  the  people.  These  were  the  first 
slaves  brought  into  the  country,  and  thus  was  laid  the 
foundation  for  that  system  of  slavery  which  now  exists  in 
the  United  Slates.  Emigrants  continued  to  arrive  from 
England,  and  the  settlements  were  widely  extended.  The 
colony  was  now  advancing  on  the  full  tide  of  prosperity. 
But  it  was  destined  soon  to  experience  a  sudden  and  dread- 
ful reverse  of  fortune. 

16.  The  Indians,  though  apparently  friendly,  secretly 
formed  a  plan  for  the  total  destruction  of  the  English.     On 

15.  When  were  slaves  first  introduced?  What  was  thus  laid ?  What  do 
you  understand  by  slavery  ?     The  condition  of  the  colony  at  that  time  ? 

16.  What  is  said  of  the  Indians  ?  What  did  they  do  ?  How  were  some  of 
the  settlements  saved  ? 

4 


88  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1C36. 

the  22d  of  May,  1622,  the  savages  burst  forth  upon  the 
settlements,  and  murdered  the  whites  without  distinction  of 
age  or  sex.  'I'he  whole  colony  would  have  been  cut  off, 
had  not  a  friendly  Indian  given  notice  of  the  plot,  in  time  to 
put  Jamestown,  and  a  few  neighboring  settlements,  on  their 
guard. 

17.  The  English  were  roused  to  vengeance  by  this  horrid 
scene.  They  attacked  the  Indians  with  fire  and  sword  ; 
burnt  theil"  wigwams  ;  pursued  them  from  forest  to  forest  ; 
killed  multitudes  of  them,  and  drove  the  remainder  far  into 
the  wilderness.  By  means  of  this  dreadful  calamity,  the 
settlements  of  the  colony  were  reduced  from  80  to  8 ;  and 
in  1624,  out  of  9,000  persons,  who  had  been  sent  from  Eng- 
land, only  1,800  were  living. 

18.  These  misfortunes  and  difficulties  induced  King 
James,  in  1624,  to  dissolve  the  London  Company,  and  take 
the  government  of  the  colony  into  his  own  hands.  He 
appointed  a  governor  and  twelve  counselors ;  3'et,  in  the 
domestic  government  of  the  colony,  this  produced  no  imme- 
diate change.  The  popular  assemblies  were  continued  and 
the  rights  of  the  people  respected.  Under  the  administration 
of  Wyatt  and  Yeardlej^  the  colon^^  prosperetl  and  rose  in 
public  estimation.  In  one  year  a  thousand  emigrants  arrived, 
and  there  was  an  increasing  demand  for  all  the  products  of 
the  soil.  But  in  1036  the  people  became  so  disgusted  with  the 
haughty  and  arbitrary  conduct  of  Sir  John  Harvey,  their 
governor,  that  they  seized  him  and  sent  him  prisoner  to 
England. 

19.  King  Charles*  was  so  much  displeased  with  this  act 

17.  What  did  the  English  do  ?  How  was  the  colony  affected  by  this  calamity? 

18.  What  was  done  in  IG34  ?  To  whom  was  all  authority  committed  ? 
How  long  did  the  colonies  submit?  What  did  they  then  do?  What  did 
King  Charles  do  ? 

19.  What  w  as  done  in  1639  ?  Character  of  Berkley  ?  What  was  restored  f 
How  did  this  affect  the  people  ? 

*  Chiirlos  I.  ascended  the  throne  of  Enirland  in  1625,  on  the  death  of  his  father, 
James  1.  Tlie  impolitic  course  that  he  pursued  at  the  commencement  oi"  his  reign 
e-xcited  much  popular  discontent  and  party  prejudice,  which  resulted  in  a  civil  war. 
The  forces  of  the  kin":  were  defeated,  and  he  was  taken  prisoner.  Shortly  after,  he  was 
tried  before  a  self-created  court  of  his  subjects,  and  condemned  aiid  executed  in 
1648.  From  the  death  of  Charles  I.  to  the  elevation  of  his  son  Charles  II.  to  the 
throne  in  1C60,  the  government  of  England  was  administered  by  Oliver  Cromwell. 


I 


1652.  SETTLEMENT    OF    VIRGINIA.  39 

of  the  coloni.sts,  that  he  sent  Harvey  back,  with  full  power 
to  govern  as  before.  In  1639,  however.  Sir  William  Berk- 
ley, a  man  distinguished  for  the  mildness  of  his  temper  and 
gentleness  of  his  manners,  was  appointed  to  succeed  Harvey 
in  the  government  of  the  colony.  This  gave  great  satisfac- 
tion to  the  people,  and  under  his  wise  and  judicious  admin- 
istration they  enjoyed  many  years  of  peace  and  prosperity. 

20.  In  1652,  Cromwell,  who  was  then  at  the  head  of 
government  in  England,  sent  a  strong  force  to  compel  the 
governor  of  Virginia  to  acknowledge  his  authority.  After 
a  brave  resistance,  Berkley  was  obliged  to  submit.  For 
several  years,  governors  were  appointed  by  Cromwell,  and 
oppressive  restrictions  were  imposed  upon  the  colonists.  At 
length,  the  people  renounced  the  authority  of  their  oppres- 
sors, and  again  conferred  the  office  of  governor  upon  Berk- 
ley, who  was  still  residing  in  the  colony. 

21.  Soon  after  this  event,  news  arrived  that  Cromwell* 
was  dead,  and  that  Charles  II. f  was  on  the  throne  of  Eng- 
land. The  authority  of  Berkley  was  confirmed  by  the  king, 
but  the  rights  of  the  people  were  little  regarded.  Large 
tracts  of  land  belonging  to  the  colony  were  granted  to  the 
favorites  of  Charles.  This  produced  great  excitement  in 
Virginia,  and  resulted  in  all  the  horrors  of  civil  war.     The 

20.  Give  some  account  of  Cromwell  ?  See  note.  What  did  he  do  in  1652? 
Berkley  ?     What  wa.s  true  for  several  years  ?     What  did  the  people  do? 

21.  What  news  arrived  soon  after?  What  is  said  of  Berkley?  Of  the 
rights  of  the  people  ?  What  was  done  ?  The  effect  in  Virginia  ?  Who  led 
the  opposing  party  ?     What  did  he  do  ? 

*  Oliver  Cromwell,  one  of  the  most  powerful  characters  of  any  aj^e  or  nsition, 
was  born  at  Huntingflori,  Eneland,  in  1.599.  With  the  sword  in  one  hand  and  the 
Bible  in  the  other,  he  raised  the  storrny  elements  of  political  and  reliifious  fanaticjam, 
and  ruled  thern  at  his  will.  Brave,  cool,  and  artful,  he  devised  the  bold'-fet  plans 
with  a  quickness  equaled  only  by  their  execution.  No  obstacle  deterred  him  ;  and 
he  was  never  at  a  loss  for  expedients.  Calm  an/J  reserved,  but  full  of  great  projects, 
he  patiently  waited  for  the  favorable  moment,  arui  failed  not  to  make  use  of  it. 
After  the  execution  of  Charles  I.  he  assumed  the  title  of"  Protector  of  the  Common- 
wealth of  Eii^land.'-  For  several  years  he  administered  the  affairs  of  the  nation 
with  j^reat  vigor,  success,  and  ability.  He  died  in  16.%.  lie  was  a^Jmired.  feared, 
and  calumniate<I  by  his  contemporaries,  but  his  character  has  been  more  truly 
appreciated  by  posterity,  and  he  is  now  looked  upon  as  one  of  those  wonderful 
geniuses  that  the  world  has  seldom  seen. 

+  Charles  II.  was  born  in  1630.  He  was  in  Holland  at  the  time  of  the  death  of  hia 
father,  Charles  I.  He  was  restored  to  the  throne  in  WA).  He  wfts  one  of  the  most 
hypocritical,  licentious,  immoral,  and  profligate  kings  that  ever  disgraced  the  crown 
of  England.    He  died  in  1685,  and  wa«  succeeded  by  his  brother,  James  H. 


40  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1G09. 

opposing  party  was  swayed  by  the  eloquence  of  a  young 
and  ambitious  lawyer,  by  the  name  of  Nathaniel  Bacon. 
He  was  elected  general,  and  arrayed  himself  with  600 
armed  men  against  the  governor  and  council. 

22.  Hostilities  continued  for  several  months  ;  during 
which,  Jamestown  was  reduced  to  ashes,  and  the  crops  in 
the  fields  were  laid  waste.  Troops  at  length  arrived  from 
England,  who,  on  the  death  of  Bacon,  which  occurred  soon 
after,  put  an  end  to  the  disturbance  and  restored  Berkley  to 
power.  Manj^  of  the  rebels  were  tried  and  executed.  The 
assembly,  however,  soon  after  interfered,  and  by  wise  and 
salutary  laws  succeeded  in  restoring  peace  and  harmony 
among  the  colonists. 

23.  The  majority  of  the  people  of  Virginia  were  for  a 
long  time  opposed  to  slavery  ;  and  laws  were  passed  to  pre- 
vent it.  But  the  selfish  policy  of  the  kings  and  proprietors 
in  England,  encouraged  the  introduction  of  slaves,  and  the 
evil  could  not  be  resisted  by  the  colonists.  Virginia,  on  ac- 
count of  her  favorable  situation,  suffered  less  from  Indian 
warfare  than  some  of  her  sister  colonies.  In  1688,  her  pop- 
ulation had  increased  to  60,000.  Other  interesting  events 
which  occurred  in  Virginia  will  be  recorded  in  the  course  of 
the  history. 


NEW  YORK. 


1.  In  1609,  Heniy  Hudson,*  an  Englishman  in  the  ser- 
vice of  the  Dutch  East  India  Company,  discovered  the  Hud- 

22.  What  was  the  consequence  ?  What  put  an  end  to  the  disturbance  ? 
What  was  done  to  the  rebels  ?    How  long  did  the  work  of  death  continue  ? 

23.  What  is  said  of  the  greater  part  of  the  peoj;le  ?  What  encouraged  slav- 
ery ?  What  else  is  said  of  Virginia  ?  Population  in  1688  ?  Where  will  other 
events  be  recorded?     How  is  the  state  of  Virginia  bounded? 

•  Henry  Hudson  was  an  eminent  English  navigator.  He  marie  two  voyajres  to  dia- 
cover  a  northwest  passage  to  Ciiina,  la  the  service  of  a  company  of  London  mer- 
chants, but  being  unsuccessful,  in  16D9  he  went  over  to  Holland,  and  luidertook  a 
third  voyage  under  the  patronage  of  the  Dutch  East  India  Company.  During  this 
voj'age  he  discovered  the  Hudson  river,  and  sailed  along  the  coast  to  tlie  44''  of  N. 
latitude.  In  1010,  he  sailed  on  his  fourth  and  last  voyage.  He  discovered  the  large 
bay  in  the  northern  part  of  America,  named  after  him,  Hudson's  Bay.  Here  he 
spent  the  winter,  and  in  the  spring,  being  unable  to  revictual  his  ship,  with  tears  in 


1613, 


SETTLEMENT    OF    NEW   YORK. 


41 


II  K  ^  K  Y      H  L  1» 


JUVEKI.NU     THE     HUDI 


son  river,  and  ascended  it  about  IGO  miles.  In  consequence 
of  this  discovery,  the  Dutcli  laid  claim  to  a  large  extent  of 
territory  on  both  sides  of  this  river,  and  called  it  Nev)  Neth- 
erlands. In  1613,  several  Dutch  merchants  erected  a  fort 
where  Albany  now  stands,  which  they  named  Fort  Orange. 
The  next  year,  they  built  several  trading  houses  on  the 
island  of  Manhattan,  now  called  New  York,  to  which  they 
gave  the  name  of  Nevj  Amsterdam. 

2.  The  English  regarded  the  Dutch  as  intruders,  and  in 
the  same  year.  Captain  Argal  from  Virginia,  with  a  fleet  of 
three  ships,  visited  these  settlements  on  the  Hudson,  de- 
manded a  surrender  of  the  fort,  and  claimed  the  territory,  as 

1 .  Wlien  and  by  whom  was  the  Hudson  river  discovered  ?  Who  laid  claim 
to  the  territory  ?  When  was  the  first  settlement  made  in  New  York  ?  What 
was  it  then  called  ? 

2.  From  what  country  did  the  Dutch  come  ?  How  did  the  English  regard 
the  Dutch  ?  What  did  Capt.  Argal  do  ?  How  mnch  territory  did  the  Dutch 
claim  ? 


his  eyes,  he  distributed  his  little  remaining  bread  to  his  men,  and  prepared  to  return. 
Having  a  rlissatisfied  and  mutinous  crew,  in  his  une£isiness  and  despair,  it  is  said,  he 
used  some  hard  expressions,  and  threatened  to  set  some  of  them  ashore.  Upon 
which  a  body  of  them  entered  his  cabin  at  night,  tied  his  arms  behind  him,  and  put 
him,  with  his  son,  John  Hudson,  and  seven  of  the  most  sickly  of  the  crew,  into  a 
boat,  and  set  them  adrift.  They  were  never  more  heard  of  A  small  part  of  the 
crew,  after  enduring  incredible  hardships,  arrived  the  next  year  in  England. 

4* 


42  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1664. 

properly  constituting  a  part  of  Virginia.  The  number  of 
the  Dutch  being  small,  they  submitted  without  resistance. 
But  the  next  year  a  new  governor  arrived  from  Holland,  and 
the  Dutch  renounced  the  authority  of  the  English,  and  re- 
tained possession  until  1664.  They  erected  a  fort  on  the 
Delaware,  and  one  also  at  the  mouth  of  the  Connecticut, 
and  laid  claim  to  all  the  territory  between  these  rivers. 

3.  The  Dutch  were  soon  molested  by  the  Indians,  In 
1646,  a  severe  battle  was  fought  at  a  place  called  Strick- 
land plain,  in  which  the  savages  were  defeated  with  great 
slaughter.  At  this  time,  disputes  existed  between  the  Dutch 
and  the  colonies  of  New  Haven  and  Connecticut.  In  1650, 
a  treaty  was  made  at  Hartford,  by  which  the  Dutch  relin- 
quished their  claim  to  the  territory  of  these  colonies,  except 
the  small  part  which  they  then  occupied. 

4.  In  1655,  Stuyvesant,*  the  Dutch  governor,  with  a  fleet 
of  seven  ships,  attacked  and  subdued  the  Swedes,  who  had 
settled  on  the  west  side  of  the  Delaware  river.  But  the 
Dutch  soon  had  to  encounter  again  their  old  enemy,  the 
English.  In  1664,  Charles  II.  granted  to  his  brother,  the 
Duke  of  York  and  Albany,  all  New  England,  and  the  terri- 
tory then  in  the  possession  of  the  Dutch.  A  squadron  soon 
appeared  in  New  York  harbor,  under  the  command  of  Col- 
onel Nichols. 

5.  The  Enghsh  immediately  demanded  a  surrender  of  the 
town,  and  promised  to  secure  to  the  inhabitants  the  rights 
of  life  and  property.  Governor  Stuyvesant  determined  to 
resist ;  but  at  length  the  inhabitants  constrained  him  to  sub- 
mit. The  English  took  possession  Sept.  8,  1664,  and  in 
honor  of  the  duke,  called  the  town  New  York.     Soon  after, 

3.  What  took  place  in  1646  ?     In  1650? 

4.  What  took  place  in  1655  ?  In  1664  ?  Who  commanded  the  fleet  sent 
against  the  Dutch  ? 

5.  What  demand  was  made  ?  Was  the  town  surrendered  ?  Wliat  name 
•was  given  to  the  toA^Ti  of  New  Amsterdam  ?  What  was  Fort  Orange  called  ? 
When  was  New  York  made  a  city  ? 

■•  Peter  Stuyvesant  was  the  last  Dutch  srovernor  of  New  York.  He  began  his  ad- 
ministration in  1647.  He  was  a  good  soldier,  and  skillful  commander.  He  remained 
in  the  country  at^er  its  surrender  to  the  English,  and  at  his  death  was  buried  in  a 
chapel  on  his  own  farm,  a  few  miles  from  New  York. 


1684.  .    SETTLEMENT    OF   NEW   YORK.  43 

Fort  Orange  was  taken,  and  named  Albany.  Nichols  now- 
assumed  the  government  of  the  country,  and  under  his  mild 
and  liberal  administration,  New  York,  in  1665,  was  made  a 
city,  which  is  now  the  grand  metropolis  of  the  western 
world. 

6.  In  1673,  shortly  after  war  was  declared  between  Eng- 
land and  Holland,  a  Dutch  fleet  arrived  at  Staten  Island, 
and  by  the  treachery  of  John  Manning,  commander  of  the 
fort,  was  permitted  to  enter  the  harbor  of  New  York  with- 
out resistance.  The  Dutch  immediately  took  possession  of 
the  city ;  but  soon  the  news  of  peace  arrived,  and  the  coun- 
try was  again  restored  to  the  English,  The  Duke  of  York 
obtained  of  his  brother,  Charles  I.,  a  new  title  of  this  prov- 
ince, and  appointed  Sir  Edmund  Andross  governor  over  all 
his  dominions  in  America.  Sir  Edmund's  administration 
was  distinguished  for  nothing  but  a  course  of  tyranny. 

7.  The  people  of  the  colony,  at  length,  became  discon- 
tented under  the  arbitrary  regulations  imposed  upon  them  ; 
and  in  1682,  they  were  first  permitted  to  take  part  in  the 
government.  An  assembly,  consisting  of  a  council  of  ten, 
appointed  by  the  duke,  and  of  eighteen  representatives, 
chosen  by  the  people,  met  in  October,  and  were  allowed  to 
make  all  the  laws  of  the  colony.  The  laws,  however,  could 
not  be  enforced,  until  approved  by  the  duke. 

8.  At  this  time  there  were  five  nations  of  Indians  in  the 
interior  of  New  York,  who  had  united  together  for  mutual 
defence.  With  these  nations  the  English  formed  an  alli- 
ance. De  la  Barre,  the  governor  of  Canada,  being  jealous 
of  this  union,  in  1684,  marched  with  an  army  of  1,700  men, 
to  subdue  these  Indians.  After  suffering  much  in  their 
march,  the  French  arrived  and  encamped  near  them. 

9.  In  addressing  the  chiefs  of  the  nation,  the  governor 
accused  them  of  conspiring  with  the  English  against  the 

6.  State  what  took  place  in  1673?  What  do  you  think  of  John  Manning's 
conduct?  What  took  place  soon  after?  Who  was  appointed  governor  by  the 
Duke  of  York?     For  what  was  his  administration  distinguished  ? 

7.  When  was  the  first  assembly  held  ? 

8.  How  many  nations  of  Indians  were  there  in  New  York  at  that  time? 
What  took  place  in  1684? 

9.  Of  what  did  De  la  Barre  accuse  the  Indians  ?  What  wa.s  the  result  ? 
What  did  the  French  afterward  do  ? 


44  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1689. 

French ;  and  threatened  them  with  a  war  of  extermination. 
One  of  the  chiefs  repHed  in  a  spirit  so  bold  and  independent, 
that  the  French  made  peace  with  the  Indians  and  returned 
to  Canada.  A  large  force  was  afterward  sent  against 
them,  but  being  overpowered  bj  the  savages,  the  French 
were  again  defeated  in  their  object.  Their  attempts  only 
strengthened  the  hostility  of  the  Indians. 

10.  The  Duke  of  York,  on  the  death  of  his  brother, 
Charles  II.,  in  1685,  succeeded  to  the  throne  of  England, 
under  the  title  of  James  II.*  The  king  was  a  Roman  Cath- 
oHc,  and  exerted  his  power  and  influence  in  favor  of  promot- 
ing that  religion  in  the  colony.  This  was  a  source  of  alarm 
to  the  inhabitants,  and  excited  their  vigilance  in  behalf  of 
their  religion. 

11.  Jn  1689,  James  was  dethroned  by  William,  Prince  of 
Orange. f  The  people  of  New  York  now  conspired  against 
their  oppressive  magistrates.  Jacob  Leisler  displayed  so 
much  zeal  in  the  cause,  that  about  500  militia  joined  him  in 
opposing  the  government.  The  chief  magistrate  having  left 
the  colony,  Leisler,  by  the  favor  of  his  party,  was  immedi- 
ately made  governor.  He  now  addressed  King  William  by 
letter,  acknowledging  his  authority,  and  professing  firm  alle- 
giance to  his  government. 

12.  Not  long  after  this,  a  letter  was  received  from  Eng- 
land, conferring  the  authority  of  government  "  upon  such  as 
might  at  that  time  be  in  power."  Leisler  now  assumed  not 
only  the  authority  but  the  title  of  lieutenant-governor.     Many 

10.  What  happened  in  1685? 

11,  12.  What  in  1689  ?     What  did  Jacob  Leisler  do  ? 

*  James  11.  succeeded  his  brother,  Charles  II.,  in  1685.  His  valor,  clemency,  and 
liberality  had  endeared  him  to  the  English  nation;  but  the  virtues  of  the  private  man 
unfortunately  disappeared  in  the  king.  He  had  no  sooner  ascended  the  throne  than 
he  became  arbitrai-y,  cruel,  and  oppressive.  He  was  a  papist,  and  in  his  zeal  to 
establish  the  Roman  Catholic  religion,  he  paid  no  regard  to  the  opinions,  prejudices, 
or  rights  of  his  subjects.  The  nation  became  dissatisfied,  and  invited  William, 
Prince  of  Orange,  who  had  married  the  king's  daughter,  to  the  throne.  He  imme- 
diately invaded  the  kingdom,  and  James,  terrified  at  the  success  of  his  enemy,  and 
the  ingratitude  of  his  courtiers,  fled  to  France  in  1688,  where  he  died  in  1701. 

t  William  III.  was  born  in  Holland,  in  1650.  In  1672,  he  was  elected  stadtholder, 
and  named  general  of  the  Dutch  forces.  In  consequence  of  the  unpopular  and  ar- 
bitrary measures  of  his  father-in-law,  James  II.,  he  succeeded  in  gaining  possession 
of  the  English  throne,  and  was  acknowledged  king  of  England  in  1689,  under  the 
title  of  William  III.  He  died  in  1702,  and  was  succeeded  by  Anne,  daughter  of 
James  II.    William  was  great  as  a  politician,  and  formidable  as  a  general. 


1690. 


SETTLEMENT    OP    NEW   YORK. 


45 


DESTRUCTION     OF     SCHENliCTADY     IN     N.Y. 


of  the  former  magistrates,  despising  Leisler,  and  envious  of 
his  power,  repaired  to  Albany,  and  raised  a  party  to  oppose 
his  authority.  Leisler  sent  Milborne,  his  son-in-law  and 
counselor,  with  an  army  to  enforce  his  authority  at  Albany. 
The  attempt  was  successful.  He  broke  up  the  party,  and 
seized  the  property  of  their  leaders. 

13.  In  1690,  during  the  war  between  England  and  France, 
the  French  of  Canada  conspired  with  certain  tribes  of  In- 
dians, for  the  destruction  of  the  Enghsh  settlements.  On 
the  18th  of  February,  a  party  attacked  and  destroyed  the 
town  of  Schenectady.  Unaware  of  their  danger,  the  inhab- 
itants had  retired  to  rest.  At  1 1  o'clock  the  savages  entered 
the  town.  Every  house  was  soon  surrounded,  and  a  horrid 
yell  broke  the  stillness  of  the  night.  The  inhabitants  sprang 
from  their  beds,  found  their  dwellings  in  flames,  and  their 
doors  guarded  by  the  savage  foe.  Many,  to  escape  from 
the  fire,  rushed  forth  half  naked  and  unarmed,  and  were  im- 
mediately cut  down  by  the  enemy.  Women  and  children 
perished  in  the  flames,  or  were  butchered  before  their  hus- 
bands and  fathers,  who  were  in  the  hands  of  the  Indians. 

13.  What  happened  in  1690  ?     Describe  the  attack  upon  Schenectady  ?  ■ 


46  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1691. 

14.  Some  escaped;  but,  naked  and  exposed  to  a  terrible 
storm,  many  of  them  perished  before  thej  could  reach  Al- 
bany, their  nearest  place  of  refuge.  In  this  cruel  assault, 
sixty  were  killed,  twenty-seven  made  prisoners,  and  twenty- 
five  lost  their  hands  and  feet  by  the  cold.  These  and  other 
savage  cruelties  led  the  English  colonists  to  combine  their 
forces  against  Canada.  Sir  William  Phips,*  with  a  large 
fleet,  sailed  up  the  St.  Lawrence ;  and  an  army  proceeded 
from  New  York  by  land,  as  far  as  Lake  Champlain.  But 
owing  to  some  mismanagement,  this  expedition  entirely 
failed  of  success. 

15.  In  1691,  King  William  appointed  Colonel  Henry 
Sloughter  governor  of  New  York.  At  this  time,  the  colony 
needed  a  magistrate  of  talents  and  energy.  Sloughter  had 
neither.  He  was  weak  and  vicious.  Leisler  disputed  his 
authority ;  but  after  several  vain  attempts  to  maintain  his 
own  power,  he,  with  Melborne,  were  taken  and  condemned 
for  high  treason. 

16.  Sloughter  at  first  refused  to  execute  the  sentence  of 
the  court;  but  at  a  feast,  in  a  fit  of  intoxication,  he  was  in- 
duced to  sign  the  death-warrant,  and  they  were  executed. 
Their  estates  were  afterward  restored  to  their  families,  and 
their  bodies  were  taken  up  by  their  party  and  buried  with 

14.  How  many  were  killed,  taken  prisoners,  and  lost  their  limbs  by  the 
cold?  What  led  the  English  to  combine  their  forces  against  Canada?  What 
was  the  result  of  these  expeditions  ? 

15.  Who  was  appointed  governor  in  1691  ?  What  was  Sloughter's  charac- 
ter?    What  was  the  conduct  of  Leisler?     What  ought  he  to  have  done  ? 

16.  How  were  Leisler  and  Milborne  treated  ?  Ought  they  to  have  been  ex- 
ecuted ?     What  was  afterward  done  by  their  party  ? 

*  Sir  William  Phips,  governor  of  Massachusetts,  was  born  at  Perroquid,  now 
Bristol,  Maine,  in  1651.  His  father  was  a  gunsmith,  in  humble  circumstances,  and 
his  mother  had  twenty-six  children,  of  whom  twenty-one  were  sons.  After  living 
in  the  wilderness  till  he  was  18  years  of  age,  he  spent  four  years  in  learning  the  trade 
of  a  ship  carpenter  ;  at  the  expiration  of  which  time  he  went  to  Boston,  and  learned 
to  read  and  write.  Determining  to  seek  his  fortune  upon  the  sea,  in  1683  he  sailed 
in  search  of  a  Spanish  vessel  which  had  been  wrecked  near  the  Bahama  islands. 
After  a  variety  of  adventures,  he  di.=;covered  it,  and  fished  up  gold,  silver,  pearls, 
and  jewels,  to'the  value  of  three  hundred  thousand  pounds  sterling  ;  his  own  share 
of  vvhich  amounted  only  to  16,000^.  He  was,  at  this  time,  made  a  knight  by  King 
James  H.,  and  appointed  high  sheriff  of  New  England.  He  died  in  England,  in 
1695.  He  was  a  blunt,  honest  man,  ardent  in  every  thing  he  undertook,  open- 
hearted  and  generous,  but  rude  in  speech  and  manners.  He  ever  exerted  himself 
to  promote  the  interests  of  New  England, 


1Y02.  .  SETTLEMENT    OF   NEW   YORK.  47 

great  pomp,  in  the  old  Dutch  church,  in  the  city  of  New- 
York. 

17.  Sloughter  died  in  1691.  He  was  succeeded  the  next 
year  by  Colonel  Fletcher.  Fletcher  desired  to  promote 
among  the  Dutch  inhabitants  the  use  of  the  English  lan- 
guage, and  the  interests  of  the  English  church.  These  ob- 
jects he  recommended  to  the  attention  of  the  assembly. 
After  much  difficulty,  a  bill  was  passed  encouraging  educa- 
tion in  the  colony,  and  providing  for  the  support  of  ministers 
of  the  gospel,  who  were  to  be  chosen  by  the  people. 

18.  In  1698,  the  Earl  of  Bellamont  was  made  governor 
of  the  colony.  At  this  time  the  American  seas  were  in- 
fested with  pirates.  The  earl  proposed  to  send  out  a  naval 
force  against  them ;  but  the  assembly  rejected  the  proposal. 
He  then  fitted  out  a  private  vessel,  under  the  command  of 
Captain  Kidd,*  who  afterward  became  a  notorious  pirate. 

19.  Bellamont  was  succeeded,  in  1702,  by  Lord  Cornbury, 
son  of  the  celebrated  Earl  of  Clarendon.  In  his  private 
character,  Cornbury  was  vicious  and  contemptible;  as  a 
magistrate,  he  was  tyrannical  and  prodigal  of  the  people's 
money.  Disgusted  with  his  profligacy,  and  wearied  with 
his  oppressions,  the  people  made  complaint  to  Glueen  Anne,t 

17.  Who  succeeded  Sloughter?     What  did  Fletcher  desire  to  do? 

18.  Who  WHS  appointed  governor  in  1698  ?  With  what  were  the  American 
seas  infested  ?  What  did  he  propose  to  the  assembly  to  do  ?  What  did  he 
do  ?     What  is  a  pirate  ?     Ans.  A  robber  on  the  seas. 

19.  Who  succeeded  Bellamont  ?  What  was  the  character  of  Lord  Corn- 
bury ?  To  whom  did  the  people  make  complaint  against  Cornbury  ?  What 
was  the  consequence  ? 

*  Capt.  Kidd  was  a  brave  seaman  and  an  able  commander.  Gov.  BeIlan\ont 
being  determined  to  clear  the  American  seas  of  pirates,  fitted  out  a  vessel,  and  gave 
the  command  of  it  to  Kidd.  But  after  he  had  been  out  upon  the  ocean  a  few  days, 
Kidd  determined  to  become  a  pirate  himself.  He  proposed  the  plan  to  his  men, 
and  they  consented  to  it.  Accordingly  he  went  forth,  and  attacked  and  destroyed 
many  vessels  upon  the  Atlantic  and  Indian  oceans,  and  became  one  of  the  mos^t  fa- 
mous pirates  that  was  ever  known.  After  three  years  he  returned,  burned  his  ship, 
and  went  to  Boston,  foohshly  imagining  that  no  one  would  know  him.  As  he  was 
•walking  the  streets  he  was  recognized,  seized,  and  soon  after  sent  to  England,  where 
he  was  tried  for  piracy,  condemned,  and  executed.  A  great  many  stories  have  been 
told  about  Captain  Kidd— how  he  buried  pots  and  chests  of  gold  along  the  coast, 
and  hid  vast  treasures  of  silver.  Many  weak-minded  persons  have  made  a  great 
many  attempts  to  find  this  gold  and  silver,  but  without  success.  He  and  his  men 
found  ways  enough  to  spend  the  money  they  took,  without  burying  it.  If  you  and 
I  never  have  more  money  than  Kidd  buried,  we  shall  have  no  trouble  in  taking 
care  of  it. 

t  Anne,  daughter  of  James  II.,  succeeded  William  III.  as  queen  of  England,  in 


48  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1'732, 

who  was  now  on  the  throne  of  England.  Cornbury  was 
removed  from  office,  and  soon  after  seized  by  his  creditors 
and  thrown  into  prison. 

20.  In  1710,  the  queen  appointed  General  Hunter  govern- 
or of  the  colony.  This  year  many  Germans  arrived  and 
settled  in  New  York.  During  Hunter's  administration 
another  attempt  was  made  for  the  subjugation  of  Canada. 
An  army  of  4,000  men  left  Albany,  and  marched  against 
Montreal.  A  large  fleet  proceeded  up  the  St.  Lawrence, 
but  meeting  with  a  violent  storm,  many  of  the  ships  were 
dashed  upon  the  rocks,  and  the  remainder  returned  to  Eng- 
land. When  this  was  made  known  to  the  army,  the  troops 
were  disheartened,  and  the  enterprise  was  abandoned. 

21.  In  1719,  Hunter  left  the  colony  in  a  state  of  perfect 
harmonj^,  and  returned  to  Europe.  His  office  was  conferred 
Upon  Wilham  Burnet,  son  of  the  celebrated  Bishop  Burnet. 
At  this  time  the  French  were  erecting  forts  along  the  lakes 
and  rivers,  from  Canada  to  the  gulf  of  Mexico.  Their  pol- 
icy in  this  was,  to  cut  off  the  fur  trade  of  the  English,  and 
secure  it  all  to  themselves.  Burnet  endeavored  to  defeat 
their  object,  by  building  a  fort  at  Oswego.  He  watched  all 
the  movements  of  the  Indians,  and  sought  to  prevent  then' 
union  with  the  French. 

22.  After  Burnet,  the  government  of  the  colony  devolved 
successively  upon  Colonel  Montgomery,  Rip  Van  Dam,  and 
William  Crosby.  The  latter  arrived  at  New  York  in  1732. 
During  his  administration  a  prosecution  was  commenced, 

20.  Whom  did  Queen  Anne  appoint  in  1710?     What  was  the  result  of  the 
expedition  to  Canada,  during  Hunter's  administration? 

21.  When  and  in  what  state  did  Hunter  leave  the  colony  ?    Who  succeeded 
him? 

22.  Upon  whom  did  the  government  devolve  after  Burnet?     What  took 
place  during  Crosby's  administration  ? 

1702.  In  1683,  she  married  Prince  George,  brother  to  Christian  V.  of  Denmark. 
Her  talents  were  but  moderate,  but  her  rei^n  forms  a  brilliant  epoch  in  the  English 
history,  from  the  victories  of  Marlborough.  Under  her  administration,  England 
and  Scotland  were  united  under  the  name  of  Great  Britain.  She  possessed  the  pe- 
culiar felicity  of  having  for  her  ministers  the  ablest  statesmen  that  eyer  lived  ;  and 
among  her  subjects,  the  nuist  learned,  subUme,  and  elo<iueut  writers  in  the  walks 
of  poetry,  science,  and  general  literature;  and  therefore  Avith  truth  her  reign  has 
been  denominated  the  Augustan  age  of  England.  She  died  in  1714,  and  was  suc- 
ceeded by  George  I. 


1743.  .  SETTLEMENT    OF   NEW   YORK.  49 

through  his  influence,  against  the  editor  of  a  newspaper,  for 
pubhshing  an  offensive  article.  After  a  noble  defense  by 
Andrew  Hamilton,  the  editor  was  acquitted,  and  Hamilton 
was  greatly  applauded  by  the  citizens,  who  desired  the  en- 
tire liberty  of  the  press. 

23.  After  the  death  of  Crosby,  in  1736,  George  Clark  was 
appointed  lieutenant-governor.  For  many  years  a  severe 
contest  had  existed  between  the  governor  and  the  house  of 
representatives.  The  governor  wished  to  have  the  control 
of  the  public  money,  and  make  such  appropriations  as  he 
saw  fit.  On  the  other  hand,  the  house  contended  that  no 
money  should  be  expended  for  any  object  which  they  did 
not  approve.  During  Clark's  administration  the  contest  was 
maintained  on  both  sides  with  a  good  deal  of  spirit,  but  the 
representatives  prevailed. 

24.  At  this  time  there  were  many  negroes  in  the  city  of 
New  York.  Fires  occurred  frequently,  and  suspicion  was 
excited  against  them.  Some  of  them  were  detected  in  set- 
ting fire  to  buildings.  It  was  now  reported  that  they  had 
formed  a  plot  to  burn  the  city,  and  intended  to  appoint  a 
governor  from  their  own  number. 

25.  The  people  were  terrified.  About  thirty  negroes  were 
seized  and  put  to  death.  Two  white  men  were  tried  and 
executed.  When  the  alarm  was  over,  the  people  began  to 
reflect  upon  the  character  of  the  witnesses  and  their  testi- 
mony. None  of  them  were  respectable  ;  and  the  evidence 
of  a  plot  had  all  vanished.  Terror  and  prejudice  had  led 
these  magistrates  to  a  course  of  manifest  cruelty  and  in- 
justice. 

26.  In  1743,  George  Chnton,  a  man  of  eminent  talents, 

23.  Who  succeeded  Crosby?  What  contest  had  existed?  What  was  the 
result  ? 

24.  What  occurred  frequently  in  New  York  at  that  time  ?  Who  were  de- 
tected in  setting  fire  to  buildings  ?     What  was  reported  ? 

25.  How  many  negroes  wej-e  taken  and  put  to  death  ?  Do  you  think  they 
■were  justly  put  to  death  ?     Why  ? 

2(1  Who  was  appointed  governor  in  1743  ?  What  was  projected  during 
Clinton's  administration?  Why  ?  How  many  years  since  the  Hudson  river 
■was  discovered?  What  other  name  is  often  applied  to  this  river  now?  Ans, 
North  river.  How  many  cities  and  large  towns  can  you  mention  in  the  State 
of  New  York  ?     How  is  the  State  bounded  ? 


50  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1615. 

was  appointed  governor.  He  soon  secured  the  love  and  con- 
fidence of  the  people,  and  united  their  energies  against  the 
French  and  Indians.  The  frequent  depredations  of  the  en- 
emy upon  the  English  settlements  led  to  the  project  of 
another  expedition  against  Canada ;  but  before  the  plan  was 
carried  into  operation,  peace  was  restored.  For  several  years 
New  York  continued  to  enjoy  uninterrupted  prosperity. 


MASSACHUSETTS. 


1.  The  Plj'mouth  Company,  soon  after  its  incorporation, 
in  1606,  sent  out  a  ship  to  make  discoveries  within  the  lim- 
its of  its  grant.  This  ship  was  taken  by  the  Spaniards. 
In  1607,  they  sent  out  another  vessel,"  with  one  hundred 
persons,  for  the  purpose  of  establishing  a  colony  at  the  mouth 
of  the  Kennebec  river,  in  Maine.  Discouraged  by  the  dreary 
appearance  of  the  country,  fifty-five  returned  in  the  ship  that 
brought  them  over.  The  remainder  suffered  so  much  during 
the  winter,  from  hunger  and  cold,  that  they  all  returned  the 
next  year  to  England,  in  a  vessel  that  came  to  bring  them 
provisions.  The  company,  disappointed  and  disheartened, 
for  several  years  made  no  further  attempts  to  effect  a  settle- 
ment. 

2.  In  1614,  Capt.  John  Smith,  in  the  service  of  the  Ply- 
mouth Company,  explored  the  coast  from  Penobscot  river  to 
Cape  Cod.  He  drew  a  map  of  his  discoveries,  and,  on  his 
return,  presented  it  to  Prince  Charles,  who  was  so  much 
pleased  with  Smith's  glowing  descriptions  of  the  country, 
that  he  gave  it  the  name  of  New  England.  In  1615,  Smith 
attempted  to  plant  a  colony  on  this  part  of  the  coast,  but  was 
unsuccessful ;  and  all  subsequent  attempts  to  form  a  settle- 
ment failed,  until  the  arduous  business  was  undertaken  by 

1.  What  two  companies  were  incorporated  in  1606  ?  What  did  the  Ply- 
mouth Company  do  the  same  year  ?  Where  did  they  attempt  to  form  a  settle- 
ment ?     What  was  the  result  ? 

2.  What  was  done  in  1614?  Was  this  the  same  Capt.  Smith  that  acted  so 
conspicuous  a  part  in  the  settlement  of  Virginia  ?  Ans.  It  was.  By  whom  was 
New  England  named  ? 


1620. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS. 


51 


men  who  were  influenced  by  higher  motives  than  the  love 
of  gain  or  of  perilous  adventure. 

3.  The  first  settlers  of  New  England  were  called  Puri- 
tans,* in  derision  of  their  peculiar  opinions  in  matters  of  re- 
ligion.    To  escape  from  persecution,  they  left  the  land  of 


LANDING     OF     THE     PILGRIMS 


their  fathers,  and,  after  a  long  and  stormy  voyage,  arrived 
at  Cape  Cod,  Nov.  19th,  1620.     After  exploring  the  country 

3.  Who  commenced  the  first  permanent  settlement  in  New  England?  What 
can  you  tell  me  respecting  the  Puritans?  When  and  where  did  they  com- 
mence their  settlement  ?  In  what  direction  from  us  is  Plymouth?  How  many 
years  since  Plymouth  was  settled  ? 


*  In  the  reign  of  Elizabeth,  queen  of  England,  the  Protestants,  or  those  opposed 
to  the  Roman  Catholics,  were  divided  into  two  parries.  One  party  were  in  favor 
of  adhering  to  the  liturgy,  the  form  of  worship  that  had  been  establisheii  in  the  time 
of  Edward  VI.  This  was  much  the  more  numerous  party.  The  other  party  wished 
to  introduce  a  simpler,  and,  as  they  considered  it,  a  purer  form  of  worship  and 
church  government.  These  last,  by  way  of  derision,  were  called  Puritans.  The 
name  was  also  applied  afterward  to  all  who  were  remarkably  strict  in  their  morals 
or  severe  in  their  manners.  During  the  whole  reign  of  Elizabeth  they  were  treated 
w:th  great  rigor  and  cruelty  ;  and  in  the  reign  of  .lames  I.  they  were  so  much  per- 
secuted and  oppressed,  that  great  numbers  of  them  left  the  kingdom  in  1609,  and  re- 
tired to  Holland.  After  residing  there  several  years,  they  resolved  to  leave  the 
country,  and  seek  an  asylum  in  the  wilderness  of  America,  where  they  might  wor- 
ship God  agreeably  to  the  dictates  of  their  own  consciences.  In  1620,  many  of  them 
passed  over  to  England,  and  on  the  .5th  of  August  set  sail  for  America,  in  the  ship 
called  the  May-Flower.  They  arrived  at  Cape  Cod  November  19th,  as  stated  above. 


52  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1628. 

for  several  weeks,  they  fixed  upon  a  spot  which  they  called 
Plymouth,  and  there  commenced,  on  the  21st  of  December, 
1620,  the  first  permanent  settlement  in  New  England. 

4.  This  colony,  consisting  of  101  persons,  landed  amid 
all  the  perils  and  privations  of  a  barren  shore,  in  the  heart 
of  winter.  At  this  gloomy  season  they  began  to  erect  their 
buildings  to  shelter  their  wives  and  their  little  ones  from  the 
piercing  cold.  Feeling  the  need  of  some  form  of  civil  gov- 
ernment among  themselves,  forty-one  of  their  number,  before 
they  landed,  solemnly  adopted  a  constitution,  and  elected 
John  Carver  first  governor  of  the  colony.  Miles  Standish* 
was  soon  after  appointed  commander-in-chief  of  the  military. 

5.  At  first  the  colony  was  not  molested  by  the  Indians. 
Massasoit,  the  great  sachem  or  chief  of  the  country,  was  in- 
duced, after  much  hesitation,  to  enter  the  village,  and  after 
eating  and  drinking  with  the  governor,  made  a  treaty  of 
friendship  with  the  English,  which  was  faithfully  observed 
for  more  than  fifty  years. 

6.  The  long  voyage  of  the  colonists,  the  severity  of  the 
winter,  and  their  numerous  privations,  brought  disease  and 
death  among  them,  which  carried  off  nearly  half  of  their 
number  before  the  return  of  spring.  But  the  spirit  of  perse- 
cution in  England  induced  many  others  to  quit  their  homes 
and  join  the  infant  colony.     In  the  year  1628,  John  Endi- 

4.  What  did  the  first  settlers  do  before  they  laiided  ? 

5.  What  Indian  chief  formed  a  treaty  with  the  people  of  Plymouth?  How 
long  was  this  treaty  observed  ?  Of  what  tribe  was  Massasoit  the  chief?  A7is.  Of 
the  Pocanokets,  or  Wampanoags. 

6  Of  how  many  persons  did  the  colony  consist?  How  many  of  these  died 
during  the  winter?  Who  arrived  in  1628?  Where  did  they  commence  a  set- 
tlement ?     What  was  this  colony  called  ? 

*  Miles  Standish  was  born  in  England.  1584.  He  served  some  time  in  the  army 
in  the  Netherlands,  before  he  came  to  America.  He  was  one  of  the  most  resolute 
and  daring  men  of  the  colony,  and  in  every  hazardous  enterprise  he  was  foremost. 
He  feared  no  danger,  and  regarded  the  Indians  as  little  as  did  iSamson  the  men  of 
Askelon.  On  a  certain  occasion,  one  of  the  colony  at  Weymouth  stole  some  corn 
from  the  savages.  The  whites,  to  give  them  satisfaction,  pretended  to  hang  the 
thief,  but,  in  his  stead,  hung  a  poor,  decrepit  old  man.  The  Indians  were  exaspe- 
i-ated  by  this  base  conduct,  and  threatened  vengeance.  Standish,  with  eight  men, 
was  sent  to  protect  the  whites.  He  went  among  them  under  pretense  of  trade,  and 
on  a  certain  occasion,  being  surrounded  by  a  large  number  of  Indians,  he  seized 
Pecksuot,  a  bold  chief,  snatched  his  knife  from  him,  and  killed  him  with  it.  and  put 
to  death  five  others,  without  losing  a  man.  The  savages  were  filled  with  consterna. 
tion,  and  sought  no  further  satisfaction  for  their  stolen  corn  !   Standish  died  in  1656. 


1634,  SETTLEMENT    OP    MASSACHUSETTS.  53 

cott,  with  about  three  hundred  others,  were  sent  over  to  pre- 
pare the  way  for  another  colony.  They  began  a  settlement, 
which  they  called  Salem.  This  colony  received  the  name 
of  Massachusetts,  so  called  from  an  Indian  tribe  of  this  name 
in  that  vicinity. 

7.  The  next  year  their  colony  was  incorporated,  under  the 
title  of  the  "  Governor  and  Company  of  Massachusetts  Bay 
in  New  England."  This  circumstance  greatly  increased 
the  spirit  of  emigration.  In  1630,  about  fifteen  hundred  peo- 
ple arrived  at  the  colonies.  Among  them  came  Governor 
Winthrop,  with  other  officers,  and  many  gentlemen  of  wealth 
and  distinction,  who  brought  over  the  charter  of  the  colony. 
They  founded  the  town  of  Boston.  Among  the  towns  earli- 
est settled  in  this  vicinity  were  Charlestown,  Dorchester, 
Watertown,  Roxbury,  Medford,  and  Cambridge. 

8.  Boston  soon  became  the  chief  town  in  the  colony,  and 
the  first  general  court  of  Massachusetts  was  held  there,  on 
the  19th  of  October,  1630.  The  settlers  now  endured  great 
hardships  from  hunger  and  cold,  and  great  numbers  died  the 
first  winter.  They  had  few  or  no  accommodations.  Their 
place  of  public  worship  was  under  a  large  tree.  For  several 
years  following  the  colony  rapidly  increased,  and  the  settle- 
ments were  greatly  multiphed.  The  Massachusetts  colo- 
nists, in  wealth  and  education,  were  superior  to  the  settlers 
of  Plymouth ;  in  other  respects  they  were  similar. 

9.  The  colonists  of  Massachusetts,  according  to  their 
charter,  were  to  assemble  four  times  a  year  for  the  election 
of  officers,  and  for  the  enactment  of  laws.  But  in  1634,  it 
being  inconvenient  for  them  all  to  assemble,  it  was  agreed 
by  general  consent  that  the  power  of  making  laws  should 
be  transferred  to  a  representative  body,  composed  of  dele- 

7.  Under  what  name  were  they  incorporated  in  1629  ?  When  was  Boston 
founded  ?     What  towns  were  settled  soon  after  ? 

8.  When  and  where  was  the  first  general  court  of  Massachusetts  held  ?  How 
did  the  colonists  of  Massachusetts  compare  with  those  of  Plymouth?  Were 
the  colonists  of  Massachusetts  Puritans  ?  Ans.  They  were.  When  the  colony 
was  first  settled,  did  all  the  people  assemble  to  make  laws  ?  How  many  times 
in  a  year?     Do  all  the  people  of  this  state  meet  together  to  make  laws? 

9.  When  was  the  power  of  making  laws  transferred  from  the  whole  body  of 
the  people  to  the  representatives  ?  What  distinguished  man  was  banished 
from  the  colony  ? 

5* 


64  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1635. 

gates  sent  from  each  of  the  pLantations.  Ne;ir  the  close  of 
the  year  1635,  Roger  Wilhums,*  the  minister  of  Salem,  hav- 
ing advanced  opinions  which  gave  otfense,  was  banished 
from  the  colony.  In  1636,  he  founded  the  town  of  Provi- 
dence, in  Rhode  Island. 

10.  In  1635,  a  large  number  of  emigrants  arrived  in  Mas- 
sachusetts, among  whom  was  Henry  Vane.f  By  his  en- 
gaging deportment  he  won  the  hearts  of  the  people,  and  the 
year  following  was  made  governor  of  the  colony.  But  his 
popularity  was  of  short  continuance. 

11.  About  this  time  Ann  Hutchinson,^  a  woman  of  con- 
siderable talent,  but  of  more  enthusiasm,  inculcated  opinions 
which  involved  the  whole  colony  in  contentions.  She  soon 
gained  great  influence,  and  was  supported  by  Mr.  Cotton  of 
Boston,  Governor  Vane,  and  others  of  the  first  respectability. 
But  at  the  next  election,  Winthrop,  instead  of  Vane,  was 
chosen  governor.  Vane,  being  disappointed,  returned  to 
England,  and  afterward  became  distinguished  in  the  civil 
wars  of  that  country. 

12.  The  settlements  in  Massachusetts  were  now  so  highly 
esteemed  in  England,  that  many  distinguished  persons,  de- 

10.  Who  arrived  in  1635?    What  can  you  relate  of  Henry  Vane? 

11.  What  can  you  say  of  Ann  Hutchinson? 

12.  What  distinguished  men  were  prevented  from  coming  to  Massachusetts  ? 

*  Williams  left  Salem  in  .January,  1030,  in  the  midst  of  a  severe,  cold,  and  stormy 
■winter.  Fur  fourteen  weeks  he  wandered  in  the  wilderness,  often  without  food 
or  shelter.  But  he  was  not  without  friends.  The  same  scruindnus  respect  for  the 
rights  of  others,  whidi  had  led  him  to  defend  the  frtt'iloin  of  conscience,  had  made 
him  also  the  champion  of  the  Indians.  He  had  studied  tlieir  lanjruage,  been  their 
guest ;  and  now,  when  he  came  in  winter,  an  exile,  to  their  cabins,  he  was  wel- 
come«l  with  warm  hearts  by  the  Pokanokets  and  Narraijauscls.  He  first  beiian  to 
build  and  plant  at  Seekonk  ;  but  beins  informed  by  tJov.  Wintlirop  that  lie  was 
•within  the  limits  of  IMvmonth,  with  five  companions,  in  the  month  of  .Ivuie,  he  em- 
harked  in  a  frail  canoe,  saih-d  down  the  Narrajjanset  river  to  Moshaseeck,  where 
lie  landed,  and  beiran  a  settlement,  which  he  named  Troviilence.     See  Rhode  Island. 

t  Sir  Henrv  Vane  was  born  in  1012.  He  early  exhibited  talents  of  the  first  order  ; 
but  was  of  an  uneasy,  restless,  and  enthusiastic  turn  of  mind.  After  his  return  from 
America,  he  took  aii  active  part  in  the  civil  wars  of  England,  and  was  unjustly  be- 
headed in  16G2.  He  possessed  ahnost  all  the  knowledge  of  that  age,  and  as  a  politi- 
cian and  statesman  he  had  but  few  eiaials. 

t  Ami  Hutchinson,  a  religious  enthusiast.  She  arrived  from  England  in  1636. 
Soon  alter  her  arrival  she  iiistituted  meetings  for  women,  In  which  she  pretended 
to  enjoy  immediate  revelations  trom  heaven.  She  inculcated  many  erroneous  sen- 
timents, and  soon  threw  the  w  hole  colony  into  a  fiame.  She  was  banished,  and  re- 
-moved  to  a  Dutch  settlement  in  New  York,  where,  in  1643,  she  and  her  family,  con- 
sisting of  fifteen  persons,  were  taken  and  killed  by  the  Indians. 


1637.  SETTLEMENT    OF    MA8SACIIUSETTS.  66 

siring  to  enjoy  a  greater  degree  of  civil  and  religious  liberty, 
determined  to  leave  their  native  shores.  Among  them,  it  is 
said,  were  Oliver  Cromwell  and  John  Hampden,*  who,  when 
about  to  sail,  were  expressly  detained  by  order  of  King 
Charles  I. 

13.  The  Indians,  now  feeling  that  the  whites  or  them- 
selves must  soon  be  exterminated,  began  to  show  their  hos- 
tility. At  this  time  the  Pequots  and  the  Narragansets,  two 
powerful  and  warlike  tribes,  were  living  within  the  limits  of 
Connecticut  and  Rhode  Island.  Between  these  two  tribes 
there  existed  the  greatest  enmity.  The  Pequots  proposed 
that  all  animosities  should  now  be  laid  aside,  and  their  forces 
united  against  the  whites.  But  the  Narragansets,  instead 
of  agreeing  to  this  proposal,  made  a  treaty  of  friendship  with 
the  English,  and  heartily  joined  with  them  in  a  war  against 
the  Pequot  tribe. 

14.  In  1637,  the  colonies  of  Massachusetts,  Plymouth, 
and  Connecticut,  sensible  of  their  danger,  combined  their 
forces  for  the  utter  extermination  of  these  savage  enemies. 
Captain  Mason,t  with  about  ninety  whites  and  three  hundred 

1.3.  How  did  some  of  ihe  Indian  tribes  begin  to  feel  respecting  the  whites? 
What  did  the  i'efjuot.s  propose  to  the  Narragansets  ?  Was  this  a  wise  propo- 
sition ?     What  did  the  Narragansets  do '! 

14.  What  did  the  colonists  of  Massachusetts,  Plymouth,  and  Connecticut  do 
in  1637? 

*  .John  Ilampilen  was  born  in  London,  in  l.')94.  He  was  educated  at  the  Univers- 
ity of  Oxford,  and  in  ](j2G  obtained  a  seat  in  parliament,  and  soon  {»rew  to  be  one 
of  the  most  popular  men  in  the  nation.     He  was  a  uniform  opposer  of  arbitrary 


firactices,  in  churcii  anrl  state  ;  ever  the  fearless  defender  of  the  rijichts  ot  man.  Be- 
ieving  it  wrong  for  the  king  to  levy  ship-moucy,  he  refused  to  pay  it,  was  prose- 
cuted, and  alone  withstood  the  royal  prosecution.     Aided  by  counsel,  he  argued  the 


ca.se  twelve  days  before  the  (.'ourt  of  Exchequer ;  and  although  eight  of  the  twelve 
judges  decided  against  him,  the  victory,  as  far  as  regarded  public  opinion,  was  his. 
From  this  time  he  was  called  the  "  Patriot  Hampden,"  and  took  a  prominent  part 
in  the  great  contest  between  the  king  and  the  parliament.  When  the  appeal  was 
made  to  arms,  he  was  the  first  to  enter  the  field.  In  a  skirmish  with  tne  royal 
forces,  he  wa«  wounded  by  the  bursting  of  a  pistol  in  his  hand,  and  died  June  filth, 
1043.  It  is  said  of  him,  "  he  had  a  head  to  contrive,  a  tongue  to  persuade,  and  a 
hand  to  execute."  The  arbitrary  act  of  the  king,  detaining  Cromwell  and  Hamp- 
den, was  a  fatal  error ;  for  it  was  owing  mainly  to  the  exertions  of  these  men  that 
he  was  at  length  deprived  of  his  crown,  and  finally  brought  to  the  scaffold. 

t  John  Mason  was  born  in  I'^nj{land  about  IWW.  He  was  bred  to  arms,  and  was 
a  brave  aoUWtr  and  skillful  commander.  He  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  at  Wind- 
sor, Connecticut,  in  IG.TJ.  He  wa-s  i)arlicularly  distinguished  in  the  I'equot  war, 
and  passed  through  many  perilous  adventures.  Mason  held  the  same  reputation 
for  military  talents  in  Connecticut,  that  Miles  Standish  did  in  the  Plymouth  colony. 
Both  rendered  the  most  important  service  to  their  country.  Mation  died  in  Nor- 
wich, Conn.,  1672. 


66 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1G37. 


friendly  Indians,  was  sent  out  against  them.  He  attacked 
one  of  their  largest  villages,  and,  after  a  severe  contest,  took 
their  fort,  set  fire  to  their  wig-warns,  surrounded  the  town, 
and  shot  many  of  the  Indians  in  their  attempts  to  escape. 
Of  the  Indians,  about  five  hundred  were  killed,  but  only  two 
of  the  English. 

15.  Soon  after,  a  decisive  battle  was  fought  in  a  swamp 
near  New  Haven,  where  the  whole  tribe  had  assembled. 
The  swamp  was  surrounded  by  the  whites,  who,  after  a  hot 
battle,  gained  a  complete  viclorj''.     Manj''  of  the  Pequots 


were  killed,  many  were  taken  prisoners,  and  the  remainder 
of  the  tribe  fled  westward  and  joined  the  Mohawks.  This 
battle  terminated  the  war.  The  English  were  not  again 
molested  by  the  Indians  for  nearly  forty  years. 

16.  It  was  now  ten  years  since  the  first  settlement  of 
Salem.  About  21,000  persons  had  already  arrived  in  Mas- 
sachusetts. But  a  change  had  taken  place  in  England, 
The  arm  of  persecution  was  broken.     The  Puritans  had 

15.  What  was  the  result  of  the  war? 

16.  How  many  persons  arrived  in  the  Massachusetts  colony  during  the  first 
ten  years  of  its  settlement  ?     What  cause  put  a  stop  to  emigration  .' 


1641.  SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  57 

gained  the  ascendency,  and  many,  leaving  the  colonies,  re- 
turned to  England.  Notwithstanding  this  check  to  the  spirit 
of  emigration,  the  colonies  continued  to  increase  with  amaz- 
ing rapidity  in  wealth  and  importance. 

17.  Education  was  not  forgotten.  Mental  and  moral  im- 
provement were  considered  of  the  first  importance,  the  best 
safeguards  of  the  commonwealth.  Hence  measures  were 
early  taken  by  the  settlers  to  provide  for  the  instruction  of 
the  young.  In  1636  the  General  Court  appropriated  £400 
to  found  a  public  school  or  college,  and  the  next  year  located 
it  at  Newtown,  now  Cambridge.  In  1638,  John  Harvard, 
an  English  divine,  at  his  death,  in  Charlestown,  bequeathed 
to  the  institution  about  £800,  and  a  valuable  library.  In 
token  of  respect  for  this  liberal  bequest,  the  school  was 
named  by  the  General  Court  '•  Harvard  College."  In  1639, 
the  first  printing-press  in  America  was  established  at  Cam- 
bridge. The  first  things  printed  were  the  freeman's  oath, 
an  almanac,  and  a  new  version  of  the  Psalms. 

18.  In  1643,  the  colonies  of  Plymouth,  Massachusetts, 
Connecticut,  and  New  Haven,  joined  in  a  confederacy  for 
mutual  advice  and  protection.  They  were  leagued  under 
the  title  of  "  The  United  Colonies  of  New  Erujland!''  Com- 
missioners met  twice  a  year  alternately  at  Hartford,  New 
Haven,  Plymouth,  and  Boston,  to  provide  for  the  interests 
of  the  confederated  colonies.  They  were  thus  united  for 
more  than  forty  years.  Rhode  Island  desired  to  join  the 
confederacy,  but  Plymouth  would  not  give  her  consent,  be- 
cause Rhode  Island  refused  to  be  incorporated  with  the 
Plymouth  colony. 

19.  In  1641,  the  people  of  New  Hampshire  placed  them- 
selves under  the  jurisdiction  of  Massachusetts.  And  in  1652, 
the  province  of  Maine  also  came  under  her  protection.  This 
province  was  first  granted  to  Sir  Ferdinand  Gorges,  in  1634, 


17.  When  was  Harvard  College  founded  ?  When  was  the  first  printing  done 
in  America?  What  were  the  fir.sl  thin;^s  printed?  How  many  years  since  ? 
How  long  after  the  settlement  of  Plymonth  was  Harvard  College  founded? 
Where  is  Cambridge?     Am.  Three  miles  N.  W.  of  Boston, 

18.  What  took  place  in  104.3  ?     How  long  united? 

19.  Wiiat  took  place  in  1G41?  In  1052?  To  whom  was  the  province  of 
Maine  first  granted  ? 


58  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1660. 

He  established  a  government  over  it,  which  in  1649  had 
lost  its  authority ;  and  as  Massachusetts  claimed  the  prov- 
ince, as  being  comprised  under  her  charter,  the  inhabitants 
submitted  to  her  jurisdiction. 

20.  We  have  seen  that  persecution  was  the  grand  fault 
of  that  age.  The  Puritans  themselves  had  been  driven  front 
home,  on  account  of  their  religious  peculiarities  ;  yet  we  soon 
find  them  cruelly  persecuting  others  who  differed  from  them 
in  matters  of  religion.  About  the  year  1650,  three  Baptists 
came  into  Massachusetts  from  Rhode  Island,  and  having 
assembled  one  Sabbath  morning  to  worship,  they  were  taken 
by  the  public  officers  and  carried  to  the  congregational 
church,  and  there  kept  till  the  close  of  service.  Soon  after 
this  they  were  tried,  and  sentenced  to  pay  a  heavy  fine,  or 
be  publicly  whipped.  Mr.  Holmes,  one  of  the  three,  refusing 
to  pay  the  fine,  was  punished  according  to  the  sentence. 
The  friends  of  one  paid  his  fine,  and  the  other  was  released. 

21.  In  1656,  a  number  of  (Quakers  arrived  in  Massachu- 
setts. Their  sentiments,  not  agreeing  with  those  of  the 
Puritans,  excited  a  spirit  of  persecution,  and  a  law  was 
passed,  banishing  all  Gluakers  from  the  colony,  and  impos- 
ing the  penalty  of  death  upon  any  who  should  remain  after 
banishment.  Four  persons,  who  had  been  banished,  re- 
turned, and  were  condemned  and  executed.  They  died  in 
triumph,  rejoicing  in  the  opportunity  they  had  of  evincing 
the  sincerity  of  their  faith. 

22.  These  cruel  measures  excited  the  pity  of  the  people, 
led  some  to  defend  the  cause  of  the  Gluakers,  and  finally  to 
embrace  their  sentiments.  The  Puritans  at  length  discov- 
ered their  error,  and  repealed  their  cruel  laws.  In  that  age 
of  bigotry,  the  wisest  of  men  had  not  discovered  that — all 

MEN    HAVE    A    RIGHT    TO    WORSHIP    GOD    AS    THEY    PLEASE. 

23.  In  1660,  a  short  time  before  Charles  the  Second  was 


20.  What  was  the  grand  fault  of  that  age  ?     What  took  place  about  1650  ? 

21.  What  in  1656?  What  law  was  passed?  How  many  were  executed? 
Do  you  think,  the  Puritans  acted  wisely  in  persecuting  those  who  differed 
from  thorn  in  their  religious  opinions  ? 

22.  What  effect  did  these  persecutions  have  on  the  people  ? 

23.  What  distinguished  individuals  arrived  in  New  England  about  this 
time  ?     What  can  you  say  of  them  ? 


1664.  SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  59 

recalled  from  exile  and  placed  upon  the  throne  of  England, 
Goffe*  and  Whallej,  two  of  the  judges  who  had  condemned 
his  father,  Charles  1.,  to  be  beheaded,  arrived  in  Massachu- 
setts. Their  talents  and  virtues  secured  to  them  the  respect 
of  ail ;  and  their  republican  sentiments  gave  them  favor 
with  the  lovers  of  liberty.  Various  attempts  were  made  by 
King  Charles  to  arrest  these  men,  but  in  vain.  They  lived 
in  seclusion,  and  died  in  peace  at  a  good  old  age.  Their 
monuments  may  now  be  seen  in  New  Haven. 

24.  The  government  of  England  now  began  to  look  with 
jealousy  upon  the  growing  spirit  of  republicanism  in  the 
colonies.  In  1663,  laws  were  passed  which  confined  all 
the  trade  of  commerce,  between  Europe  and  the  colonies,  to 
Enghsh  vessels.  Against  these  restrictions  the  colonists 
made  frequent  complaints,  but  without  effect.  In  1664,  the 
king  sent  over  four  commissioners  to  examine  into  the  state 
of  the  colonies.  They  exercised  their  authority  in  Plymouth 
and  Rhode  Island :  but  their  decisions  were  little  regarded. 

25.  In  Massachusetts  their  authority  was  promptly  re- 
jected. In  New  Hampshire  they  attempted  to  excite  the 
people  against  the  jurisdiction  of  Massachusetts ;  but  their 
counsel  was  not  regarded.  They  made  the  same  attempts 
in  Maine.     In  Connecticut,  the  commissioners  were  received 

24.  How  did  the  government  of  England  begin  to  regard  the  colonies  ? 
What  was  done  in  1003  ?  In  1664  ?  Where  did  these  commissioners  exer- 
cise their  authority? 

25.  What  may  these  laws,  and  the  acts  of  the  commissioners,  be  consid- 
ered as  ? 

'  William  Goffe,  one  of  the  regicides,  wa.s  a  major-general  under  Cromwell.  He 
left  England  in  company  with  General  Whalley,  and  arrived  in  Boston  in  .June, 
1660.  They  were  kiurlly  received  by  Gov.  Endicott  and  the  principal  inhabitants, 
and  resided  at  Cambridge  until  February,  1%1,  when  learning  that  Charle.s  II.  was 
making  efforts  to  fiave  them  arrested,  they  removed  to  New  Haven,  and  were  con- 
cealed by  the  inhabitants.  Fearful  of  being  discovered,  they  resided  for  some  lime 
on  West  Rock,  near  New  Haven.  In  1664,  they  removed  toHadley,  Massachusetts, 
and  remained  concealed  fifteen  or  sixteen  years  in  the  house  of  Sir.  Russell,  the 
minister  in  that  place.  When  the  Indians  attacked  that  town  in  i67.5,  and  threw 
the  inhabitants,  who  were  a.ssembled  for  public  worship,  into  the  utmost  confiwion, 
suddenly  there  appeared  among  them  a  man  of  venerable  aspect,  white  with  age, 
and  clothed  in  an  unusual  dress.  He  put  him.self  at  their  head,  and  with  a  firm 
voice,  and  an  example  of  undaunted  resolution,  led  them  to  the  conflict,  and  totally 
routed  the  savages."  Scarcely  was  the  battle  er^ed,  when  the  stranger  disappeared. 
No  one  knew  whence  he  had  come,  nor  whith#  he  had  gone  ;  and  the  people  actu- 
ally regarded  him  as  an  angel  sent  by  Heaven  for  their  deliverance.  Their  leader 
was  Goffe.    He  died  at  Hadley,  about  1079.    See  "  National  Preceptor,'-  p.  22. 


60  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNlTttD    STATES.  iGiB* 

with  respect  and  compliance.  For  these  marks  of  her  loy- 
alty she  afterward  received  the  approbation  of  the  British 
government.  The  laws  restrictinj^  navifration,  and  the  au- 
thority assumed  by  these  commissioners  from  the  kin;^,  may 
be  considered  as  the  commencement  of  those  aggressions 
upon  the  rights  of  the  colonists  which  led  on  to  the  revo- 
lution. 

26.  Fifty  years  had  now  passed  since  the  whites  first 
landed  at  Plymouth.  About  120,000  Europeans  peopled 
the  shores.  The  natives  at  first  regarded  the  English  as 
their  friends,  and  sold  to  them  their  extensive  lands  without 
fear  or  suspicion.  But  now,  seeing  their  own  number  daily 
diminishing,  and  the  whites  daily  increasing,  they  began  to 
apprehend  their  own  entire  extermination. 

27.  Their  patriotism  and  love  of  life  now  roused  all  these 
savage  tribes  to  one  mighty  effort.  They  were  ready  to 
unite  and  strike  the  last  fatal  blow  against  the  whites. 
Philip,*  the  sachem  of  the  Wampanoags,  was  eminently 
qualified  to  concert  their  plans  and  combine  their  energies 
for  this  great  undertaking.  Fired  with  hatred  and  revenge, 
he  persuaded  all  the  Indian  tribes  in  New  England  to  unite 
in  a  war  of  extermination  against  their  white  invaders.  His 
confederacy  could  bring  into  the  field  about  4,000  warriors. 

28.  The  whites  now  began  to  perceive  the  designs  of  the 
Indians.  Their  hostility  was  daily  manifested  ;  and  in  June, 
1675,  they  attacked  the  town  of  Swanzey,  killed  many  of 
its  inhabitants,  and  plundered  and  set  fire  to  their  houses. 


26.  If  llic  lii(li;vns  could  have  foreseen  what  effect  the  settlement  of  the 
■whites  would  have  had  on  them  and  the  country,  liow  do  yon  suppose  tliey 
would  have  received  them  at  first?  How  did  the  Indians  regard  the  English 
at  first?  Did  they  adopt  the  arts  of  civilized  life  ?  Why  not  ?  Have  the  In- 
dians always  prefcMrcd  their  own  savage  customs  and  modes  of  living,  to  the 
comforts  and  blessings  of  civilized  life  ?     What  did  they  now  begin  to  fear? 

27.  For  what  purpose  did  they  now  unite  ?  Who  was  the  leader  of  this 
grand  confederacy  ? 

28.  When  were  the  first  acts  of  hostility  committed  ? 


•  Philip  was  the  youngest  son  of  Massasoit.  He  was  a  brave  and  artful  warrior. 
Foreseeing  the  loss  of  his  territory,  and  extinction  of  his  tribe,  if  the  English  were 
perinitlcd  U)  increase  willioiit  interaiption,  he  lighted  up  the  llame  of  war  in  vari- 
ous parts  of  the  country.  He  was  CTled  in  1676.  Mr.  Elliot  once  preached  before 
him,  when  he  took  hold  of  a  button  of  the  good  man's  coat,  and  said  to  him,  "  1  do 
not  value  the  gospel  any  more  than  that." 


16*75. 


SETTLEMENT    OF   MASSACHUSETTS. 


61 


The  troops  of  the  colony  soon  appeared  ;  hut  the  enerny  had 
fled,  settirif^  fire  to  every  building  they  passed,  butchering 
the  whites,  and  fixing  their  heads  upon  poles  by  the  side 
of  the  road.  The  troops  pursued,  but  could  not  overtake 
thern. 

29.  The  whole  country  was  now  roused  to  arrns.  Philip, 
perceiving  the  augmented  forces  of  the  enemy,  left  his  post 
at  Mount  Hope,  and  stationed  his  troops  at  Pocasset,  now 
called  Tiverton.  Here  the  Enghsh  attacked  him  :  but  were 
defeated  with  the  loss  of  sixteen  rnen,  The  Narragansets 
being  now  leagued  with  Philip,  the  Enghsh  ruarched  di- 
rectly into  their  country,  and  forced  thern  into  a  treaty  of 
perpetual  peace.  This  treaty,  however,  was  violated  as  soon 
as  the  whites  retired. 


isDi\y  s 


WHITES, 


30.  The  colonists  now  labored  under  every  possible  dis- 
advantage. Their  settlements  were  surrounded  with  thick 
forests.  Indians  were  living  promiscuously  among  them, 
professing  to  be  friendly,  but  proving  to  be  enemies.  They 
were  exposed,  at  every  turn,  to  the  shot  of  their  foes.     The 


29.  Where  was  the  first  battle  fought  in  this  war ; 
do  to  the  Narragansets  ? 

6 


What  did  the  Enelish 


62  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  16 '77. 

Indians  could  rush  forth  from  the  woods,  pkmder  and  destroy 
a  village,  butchering  the  inhabitants,  young  and  old,  and 
escape  to  their  ambush,  before  any  force  could  be  collected 
to  oppose  them, 

31.  Watching  all  the  movements  of  the  whites,  these 
savages  could  fall  upon  them  in  the  most  favorable  circum- 
stances. The  war  was  so  general,  that  the  colonists  could 
not  unite  their  forces  at  any  one  point,  without  exposing 
their  towns,  their  wives,  and  their  children,  to  immediate  de- 
struction. 

32.  The  commissioners  of  the  united  colonies  now  per- 
ceiving that  the  Indians  had  conspired  to  exterminate  the 
whites,  declared  the  war  to  be  just  and  necessary,  and  or- 
dered that  2,000  men  should  be  raised  to  oppose  the  enemy. 
The  Narragansets  being  the  nearest  and  most  dangerous 
tribe,  the  colonists,  under  the  command  of  Mr.  Winslow, 
governor  of  Plymouth,  marched  into  their  country,  and  pur- 
sued them  through  a  deep  snow,  to  their  stronghold  in  the 
midst  of  a  thick  swamp. 

33.  Their  fortress  was  built  on  an  island,  and  surrounded 
by  a  thick  brush-fence,  a  rod  wide.  It  had  but  one  narrow 
entrance,  and  that  well  defended.  The  whites  determined 
to  force  this  passage.  The  Indians  fought  bravely;  but 
after  a  bloody  contest  the  whites  entered,  set  fire  to  the 
fort,  consuming  about  600  wigwams,  their  old  men,  women, 
and  children.  About  230  of  the  colonists  were  killed  or 
wounded,  while  the  loss  of  the  Indians  was  at  least  1,000 
slain. 

34.  During  the  winter,  the  Indians  destroj^ed  many  towns, 
and  massacred  great  numbers  of  the  defenceless  whites.  In 
the  spring,  the  people  of  Connecticut  successfully  invaded 
the  country  of  the  Narragansets,  took  their  chief  sachem, 
and  delivered  him  up  to  the  Mohegans,  who,  being  friendly 
to  the  whites,  put  him  to  death. 


30,  31.  Were  the  whites  well  situated  for  a  war  with  the  Indians  ?  Why 
not? 

32,  33.  How  large  a  force  did  the  English  raise  ?  Under  whose  command 
were  the  colonists  placed  ?     Describe  their  attack  upon  the  Narragansets. 

34.  What  took  place  daring  the  winter  .'     What  in  the  spring  ? 


1611. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS. 


63 


35.  Philip  had  now  collected  a  band  of  his  scattered 
forces,  and  returned  to  his  old  station  at  Mount  Hope. 
About  the  first  of  August,  Captain  Church*  attacked  him, 
took  his  wife  and  children  prisoners,  and  killed  about  130 
of  his  men.  On  this  occasion,  Phihp  wept  bitterly  for  the 
loss  of  his  family,  and  exhibited  the  noblest  feelings  of  hu- 
man nature.  One  of  his  own  men  proposed  to  him  to  sub- 
mit to  the  whites.  Phihp  instantly  shot  him  dead  on  the 
spot.  A  brother  of  this  Indian,  enraged  at  Philip,  deserted 
his  ranks,  and  joined  the  colonists.     This  man,  in  a  battle 


DEATH     OF     PHILIP 


shortly  after,  shot  Philip,  in  revenge  of  his  brother's  death. 
Thus  fell  this  noble  Indian  warrior.  This  event  put  an  end 
to  the  war.     The  Indians  now  fled,  or  sued  for  peace. 

36.  Peace,  indeed,  was  the  ardent  desire  of  all.     The  col- 
onists had  suffered  every  sort  of  calamity.     The  survivors 

35.  How  was  Philip  affected  at  the  loss  of  his  family  ?     By  whom  was  he 

killed?     Why? 

36.  Describe  the  state  of  the  colonists  at  the  close  of  Philip's  war. 


'  Benjamin  Church  was  born  at  Duxbury,  Mass.,  in  1639.  He  was  distinguished 
by  his  exploits  in  the  Indian  wars.  He  was  a  man  of  undaunted  courage.  His 
name  was  a  terror  to  the  Indians.  Though  his  life  was  often  exposed  to  the  great- 
est dangers,  he  always  escaped  with  little  or  no  injury.    He  died  in  1718. 


64  HISTORY    OF.  THE    UNITED    STATES.  1686. 

were  all  in  mourning  for  the  dead.  The  brave  soldier  re- 
turned, to  find  his  house  burned  down  and  his  family  mur- 
dered. The  loss  of  life  and  of  property  had  greatly  weak- 
ened the  colonies.  By  the  war,  they  had  also  incun-ed  a 
heavy  debt.  During  all  these  calamities  they  had  never 
asked  any  assistance  from  the  mother  country. 

37.  Soon  after  the  close  of  this  war,  the  heirs  of  Gorges 
urged  against  Massachusetts  their  claims  to  the  territory 
of  the  province  of  Maine.  To  satisfy  these  claims,  Massa- 
chusetts paid  the  sum  of  £1250.  In  1680,  New  Hampshire 
was  separated  from  Massachusetts,  and  became  a  distinct 
colony. 

38.  The  government  of  England,  dissatisfied  with  the 
state  of  affairs  in  the  colonies,  sent  over  Edward  Randolph 
to  secure  the  enforcement  of  the  obnoxious  laws  relating  to 
commerce.  He  brought  a  message  from  the  king,  desiring 
the  colonial  governments  to  send  agents  to  England,  au- 
thorized to  act  with  full  power  in  behalf  of  the  colonies. 

39.  The  people  of  Massachusetts  suspected  that  the  de- 
sign of  this  movement  was  to  get  away  their  charter,  and 
bring  the  government  of  the  colony  under  the  immediate 
control  of  the  king.  The  agents,  therefore,  who  were  ap- 
pointed, were  instructed,  on  no  consideration,  to  deliver  up 
the  charter. 

40.  In  1684,  the  government  of  England  declared  the 
charter  of  Massachusetts  to  be  no  longer  vahd ;  and  in 
1686,  Sir  Edmund  Andross  was  appointed  governor  of  that 
colony.  This  was  highly  displeasing  to  the  people  of  Mas- 
sachusetts. They  felt  that  a  tyrant  was  now  placed  over 
them.  The  governor  immediately  imposed  restraints  upon 
the  press,  and  broke  in  upon  the  religious  and  domestic  reg- 
ulations of  the  people.     The  titles  of  land,  given  under  the 

37.  What  did  the  heirs  of  Gorges  do  ?    When  did  New  Hampshire  become 
a  distinct  colony  ? 

38.  For  what  purpose  was  Edward  Randolph  sent  over  to  the  colonies  ? 
What  were  the  colonial  governments  requested  to  do  ? 

39.  How  did  the  people  regard  this  movement  ?     How  did  they  instruct 
their  agents  ? 

40.  What  took  place  in  1684  ?    In  1686?    How  did  this  affect  the  people  ? 
What  did  Andross  do  ? 


1692.  SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  65 

old  charter,  were  declared  void,  and  exorbitant  prices  were 
demanded  for  securing  new  ones. 

41.  These  proceedings  of  the  government  provoked  the 
people  to  madness,  and  thej  were  ready  to  seize  on  the  first 
favorable  opportunity  for  redress.  In  1689,  news  came  from 
England  that  William,  Prince  of  Orange,  had  landed  at 
Torbay,  and  was  contending  for  the  crown.  The  people  of 
Massachusetts,  inspired  with  hope  of  dehverance,  at  once 
flew  to  arms,  arrested  and  imprisoned  Andross  and  his  offi- 
cers, and  restored  their  former  mode  of  government.  The 
next  arrival  from  England  brought  word  that  the  Prince  of 
Orange  had  gained  possession  of  the  throne,  under  the  title 
of  William  III.  This  intelligence  was  received  with  great 
joy  throughout  New  England. 

42.  In  1692,  William  granted  to  Massachusetts  a  new 
charter,  which  extended  her  jurisdiction  over  the  provinces 
of  Plymouth,  Maine,  and  Nova  Scotia.  By  this  charter,  the 
king  reserved  to  himself  the  right  of  appointing  the  governor 
of  the  colony.  On  the  24th  of  May,  Sir  William  Phips,  the 
first  royal  governor,  arrived  at  Boston  with  the  new  charter; 
which,  in  many  respects,  was  not  so  acceptable  to  the  peo- 
ple as  the  old  one.  By  an  express  provision,  the  new  char- 
ter granted  entire  liberty  of  conscience  to  all,  excepting 
Roman  Catholics. 

43.  About  this  time  the  colonies  were  greatly  harassed 
by  the  French  of  Canada,  combined  with  the  northern  and 
eastern  Indians.  A  fleet  was  fitted  out  under  the  command 
of  Sir  William  Phips,  to  proceed  against  Q,uebec  ;  and  land 
forces  were  raised  to  march  directly  to  Montreal.  These 
movements  were  unsuccessful ;  and,  instead  of  relieving  the 
colonists,  increased  their  burden  of  debt. 

44.  In  the  midst  of  these  calamities.  New  England  was 
thrown  into  panic  and  distress  by  the  strange  delusions  of 


41.  What  effect  had  these  proceedings?  What  news  arrived  in  1689? 
What  did  the  people  do? 

42.  What  did  Massachusetts  receive  from  the  king  in  1692?  Who  was  the 
first  governor  under  the  new  charter  ? 

43.  What  expedition  was  undertaken  about  this  time?  Its  result?  How 
did  Massachusetts  pay  off  her  troops  on  their  return  ?  Ans.  By  bills  of  credit, 
or  paper  money.     'I'his  was  the  beginning  of  the  paper  money  system. 

6* 


66 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    6TATES. 


1692. 


witchcraft.  A  few  years  before,  in  England,  persons  called 
witches,  were  tried,  condemned,  and  put  to  death  in  great 
numbers.  Many  highly  respectable  men  had  declared  their 
belief  that  some  persons  were  actually  possessed  with  evil 
spirits.  The  people  of  New  England,  therefore,  were  pre- 
pared to  receive,  with  the  utmost  credulity,  the  absurdities 
of  this  imaginary  witchcraft. 


TRIAL     FOR     WITCHCRAFT. 


45.  The  evil  commenced  in  Salem.  Two  little  girls  in 
the  family  of  Mr.  Paris,  the  minister  of  that  place,  were 
taken  sick  and  strangely  affected.  The  physicians  could 
not  account  for  their  complaints,  and  declared  them  be- 
witched. The  children  ascribed  their  suffering  to  an  old 
Indian  woman,  who  lived  in  the  family.  Their  condition 
was  soon  reported  through  the  town,  and  many  came  to  see 
them.  Every  bodj'-'s  sympathy  was  excited.  The  old  wo- 
man, being  accused  and  terrified,  partly  acknowledged  that 
she  was  guilty. 

44.  What  strange  delusion  seized  upon  the  minds  of  the  people  about  this 
time  ?     Where  had  it  prevailed  before  ? 

45.  Where  did  it  commence  in  this  country?  How  were  the  suiFerers 
affected? 


1704.  SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  6t 

46.  So  great  was  the  excitement,  that  others  soon  imag- 
ined themselves  affected  in  the  same  way;  and  all  the 
magistrates  being  alarmed  at  the  progress  of  the  evil,  a 
special  court  was  established  to  try  those  who  were  accused. 
The  sufferers  declared  that  the  witches  came  into  their 
rooms  through  the  cracks  of  the  doors  and  windows,  or 
through  the  keyhole,  and  toi*mented  them,  by  pinching, 
scratching,  pricking  as  with  forks,  shaking,  beating  them, 
&c.  Many  of  the  accused  were  tried,  condemned,  and 
hung. 

47.  The  infatuation  had  now  extended  to  all  classes  in 
society.  Twenty  had  been  put  to  death,  and  more  than  a 
hundred  v/ere  in  prison,  awaiting  their  trial.  At  length  the 
magistrates,  finding  that  their  own  families  were  exposed  to 
the  same  accusations,  began  to  suspect  that  it  was  all  a  de- 
lusion. Those  in  prison  were  released.  The  witches  soon 
fled. 

48.  Thus  ended  the  Salem  witchcraft  It  is  astonishing 
to  us  that  our  forefathers,  with  all  their  learning, '  should 
have  been  thus  deluded.  But  we  should  remember  that  this 
was  an  age  of  superstition ;  that  many  good  men  really  be- 
lieved in  the  existence  of  witches.  The  same  delusion  had 
prevailed  extensively  in  England  and  other  parts  of  Europe. 

49.  The  English  settlements  were  harassed  by  the  French 
and  Indians,  until  the  close  of  the  war,  Sept.  20,  1697. 
Peace  followed  for  a  few  years.  But  war  breaking  out 
anew  between  England  and  France,  hostilities  at  once  com- 
menced between  their  colonies.  In  February,  1704,*  the 
town  of  Deerfield,  Mass.,  was  attacked  in  the  night  by  the 
Indians  and  French.     The  town  was  set  on  fire,  and  the 

46.  What  did  the  magistrates  do  ?     What  was  done  with  the  accused  ? 

47.  How  many  were  put  to  death  1  How  many  imprisoned  ?  How  did  the 
delusion  end  ? 

48.  What  is  it  now  called  ?  How  can  you  account  for  this  delusion  ?  Do 
you  believe  in  witchcraft? 

49.  What  happened  in  1704  ? 

'  The  first  English  newspaper  published  in  America,  was  printed  in  Boston,  April 
24th,  1704,  called  "  The  Boston  News  Letter."  It  was  the  only  paper  printed  in  the 
American  colonies  until  the  21st  of  Dec,  1719,  when  "  The  Boston  Gazette"  made  its 
appearance;  and  on  the  following  day,  Dec.  22d,  "The  Weekly  Mercury"  was 
published  at  Philadelphia. 


68  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*744. 

inhabitants  killed  or  carried  prisoners  to  Canada.  More 
than  twenty,  unable  to  bear  the  fatigue  of  the  journey,  were 
killed  by  the  way ;  among  whom  was  Mrs,  Williams,  the 
wife  of  the  minister  of  Deerfield.  For  ten  years  the  people 
of  Massachusetts  and  New  Hampshire  endured  all  the  cruel- 
ties of  an  Indian  war. 

50.  In  1711,  a  large  fleet,  under  the  command  of  Admiral 
Walker,  left  England  for  the  purpose  of  subduing  Canada. 
Having  entered  the  river  St.  Lawrence,  and  disregarding 
the  advice  of  the  American  pilots,  he  was  driven  upon  the 
rocks,  and  many  of  his  ships  dashed  to  pieces.  The  cries 
of  the  drowning  were  heard,  through  the  darkness  of  mid- 
night, but  no  relief  could  be  afforded.  Before  morning,  more 
than  1,000  of  their  number  had  perished.  This  dreadful 
calamity  defeated  the  object  of  the  expedition.  The  remain- 
der of  the  fleet  returned  to  England.  The  Indians  continued 
their  cruel  depredations  upon  the  colonies  till  April  11th, 
1713,  when  peace  was  concluded  between  England  and 
France. 

51.  In  1716,  Samuel  Shute  was  appointed  governor  of  the 
colony.  During  his  administration,  much  contention  pre- 
vailed between  him  and  the  house  of  representatives,  respect- 
ing the  governor's  salary.  The  house  contended  for  the 
right  of  rewarding  him  according  to  his  services,  while  the 
king  had  ordered  the  governor  to  estabhsh  a  permanent 
salary.  This  contest  continued  for  many  years,  and  was 
finally  settled  by  a  vote  of  the  house  of  representatives,  to 
grant  a  definite  sum  for  the  pay  of  the  governor. 

52.  In  1744,  war  was  again  declared  between  England 
and  France.  During  the  time  of  peace,  the  French  had 
strongly  fortified  the  port  of  Louisburg  on  Cape  Breton. 
This  port  gave  French  privateers  every  advantage  for  ruin- 


50.  What  happened  in  1711  ?    What  in  1713  ? 

51.  What  took  place  in  1716?  What  under  his  administration?  In  whose 
possession  was  Canada  at  that  time  ?  In  what  direction  from  us  is  that  coun- 
try?    In  whose  possession  is  it  at  this  time? 

52.  When  was  war  again  declared  between  England  and  France  ?  What  is 
a  privateer  ?  Ans.  It  is  a  ship  or  vessel  owned  and  fitted  out  by  a  private 
man,  or  individuals,  and  commissioned  by  government  to  seize  the  ships  of  an 
enemy  in  war. 


1744. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    MASSACHUSETTS. 


69 


ing  the  important  fisheries  on  that  coast,  and  for  breaking 
up  the  trade  of  the  colonies.  A  plan  was  conceived  by  one 
of  the  colonists  for  taking  this  port,  and  communicated  to 
the  governor  of  Massachusetts,  Having  imposed  an  oath 
of  secrecy  upon  the  members  of  the  general  court,  the  gov- 
ernor made  known  the  plan  to  them.  At  first  the  enterprise 
was  considered  as  altogether  hazardous  and  impracticable ; 
but  when  made  known  to  the  people,  all  hands  and  hearts 
were  ready  for  the  undertaking. 


OF     LOUISBUEG. 


53.  An  army  of  more  than  4,000  men,  under  the  com- 
mand of  William  Pepperell,  was  soon  landed  on  the  island  ; 
while  a  fleet,  under  Commodore  Warren,  blockaded  the  har- 
bor. A  detachment  marched  round  to  the  northeast  part  of 
the  harbor,  in  the  night,  and  set  fire  to  the  buildings  contain- 
ing naval  stores,  tar,  pitch,  wine,  brandy,  &e.  The  flames 
and  smoke  pouring  into  the  grand  battery,  so  terrified  the 
French,  that  they  spiked  their  guns,  and  fled  to  the  city. 
The  next  morning  the  New  England  troops  took  possession 
of  the  battery.  ^ 

53.  What  expedition  was  fitted  out  about  this  time  ?    Who  cominanded  the 
army? 


10  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1638. 

54.  In  order  to  attack  the  city,  it  was  necessary  to  trans- 
port the  cannon  across  a  marsh  impassable  for  oxen  or 
horses.  Sledges  were  constructed  ;  and  on  these,  the  men 
with  ropes  over  their  shoulders,  sinking  to  their  knees  in 
mud,  drew  them  safely  across.  They  now  turned  their  can- 
non with  great  effect  upon  the  city.  The  fleet  in  the  harbor 
captured  a  French  64  gun  ship,  laden  with  stores,  and  five 
hundred  and  sixty  men  for  the  relief  of  the  garrison.  This 
threw  the  besieged  into  great  distress,  and,  with  other  ad- 
verse events,  led  the  French,  on  the  28th  of  June,  to  surren- 
der the  city. 

55.  This  expedition  displayed  the  spirit  of  New  England 
and  excited  the  jealousy  of  Great  Britain.  The  next  sum 
mer  a  large  French  fleet  of  forty  ships  appeared  on  the  coast, 
which  spread  great  alarm  through  the  colonies.  But  the 
French,  after  many  serious  disasters,  which  destroyed  nearly 
half  their  fleet,  returned  to  France.  In  1748,  peace  was 
concluded,  and  Cape  Breton  was  restored  to  the  French. 
Nothing  more  of  special  importance  occurred  in  Massachu 
setts  till  the  next  French  war. 


,fl 


NEW  HAMPSHIRE. 


j 


1.  The  first  permanent  settlement  in  New  Hampshire, 
was  made  by  the  English,  in  1623.  John  Mason  and  Fer- 
dinand Gorges  obtained  from  the  New  England  Company  a 
grant  of  this  territory,  and  sent  over  a  few  pioneers,  who 
made  new  settlements  on  the  west  side  of  the  Piscataqua 
river :  one,  near  the  mouth,  called  Little  Harbor  ;  the  other, 
further  up  the  river,  at  Cocheco,  now  called  Dover. 

2.  Portsmouth  was  settled  in  1631  ;  and  in  1638,  a  set- 
tlement was  made  at  Exeter,  by  the  Rev.  John  Wheelwright, 

54.  What  was  the  result  of  this  expedition  ? 

55.  When  was  peace  concluded?     Did  the  English  retain  Cape  Breton? 

1.  When  was  the  first  permanent  English  settlement  made  in  New  Hamp- 
shire ?  Who  obtained  a  grant  of  this  territory  ?  How  long  since  Dover  was 
settled  ? 

2.  When  was  Portsmouth  settled  ?  How  were  the  first  settlers  mostly  oc- 
cupied ? 


1680. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    NEW    HAMPSHIRE. 


•^1 


SETTLEMENT  OF  PORTSMOUTH. 


who  had  before  purchased  the  land  of  the  Indians.  The 
first  settlers  of  this  state  were  mostly  occupied  in  fishing 
and  trade. 

3.  Soon  after  the  settlement  of  Exeter,  the  inhabitants  of 
that  town  organized  a  government  for  themselves.  For  sev- 
eral years,  the  government  of  each  town  was  distinct  and 
independent.  But  finding  that  they  were  very  much  ex- 
posed to  the  ravages  of  the  Indians,  they  placed  themselves, 
in  1641,  under  the  protection  of  Massachusetts,  During  the 
wars  with  Philip,  these  feeble  settlements  suffered  extremely 
from  the  barbarous  assaults  of  the  enemy. 

4.  In  1679,  New  Hampshire  was  separated  from  Massa- 
chusetts, and  made  a  distinct  province.  Its  government  con- 
sisted of  a  president  and  council,  appointed  by  the  king,  and 
and  a  house  of  representatives,  chosen  by  the  people.  The 
assembly  held  its  first  session  in  Portsmouth,  in  1680,  when 
a  law  was  passed,  declaring,  that  "  no  act,  imposition,  law, 
or  ordinance,  should  be  imposed  upon  the  inhabitants,  but 


3.  What  was  the  government  of  each  town  ?    Under  the  protection  of  what 
colony  did  they  place  themselves  in  1 641  ? 

4.  When  was  New  Hampshire  made  a  distinct  province  ? 


12  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1689. 

such  as  should  be  made  bj  the  assembly,  and  approved  by 
the  president  and  council." 

5.  About  this  time  a  contest  commenced,  which  continued 
with  more  or  less  severity  for  many  years.  Robert  Mason, 
the  grandson  of  John  Mason,  arrived  at  Portsmouth,  and 
laid  claim  to  a  large  part  of  the  temtory,  declaring  all  titles 
of  land  not  given  by  him  to  be  invalid.  His  claims  were  re- 
jected, and  returning  to  England,  he  induced  the  king  to 
commission  Edward  Cranfield  as  the  commander-in-chief  of 
New  Hampshire.  On  Cranfield's  an'ival  he  also  met  with 
violent  opposition  in  urging  the  claims  of  Mason.  By  a 
course  of  injustice  and  oppression,  he  rendered  himself  con- 
temptible in  the  eyes  of  the  people,  and  was  obliged  to  leave 
the  country.  Mr.  Waldron,  a  principal  man  in  the  colony, 
and  the  owner  of  much  land,  was  very  active  in  opposing 
the  claims  of  Mason  and  Cranfield. 

6.  In  1689,  the  people  sent  a  petition  to  the  king,  praying 
that  they  might  again  be  annexed  to  Massachusetts.  The 
petition  was  refused,  and  the  petitioners  were  obliged  to  sub- 
mit to  a  separate  government.  Samuel  Allen,  who  had  pur- 
chased Mason's  claim,  was  made  governor  of  the  colony. 
He  at  once  renewed  the  old  contests  respecting  lands.  Suits 
were  laid  against  some  of  the  principal  landholders,  but  the 
court  usually  gave  a  decision  in  their  favor. 

7.  Major  Waldron  and  others,  of  Dover,  by  repeated  acts 
of  injustice,  roused  the  indignation  of  the  Indians,  who  con- 
certed the  following  plan  for  destroying  the  town.  In  con- 
sequence of  the  dangers  to  which  they  were  exposed,  the 
inhabitants  had  fortified  several  houses  to  which  they  re- 
paired every  night  to  sleep.  The  Indians  sent  several 
women,  who  were  considerecf  friendly  to  the  whites,  to  seek 
lodgings  with  them.  They  were  instructed  to  thro%v  open 
the  doors  of  these  houses  in  the  night,  and  give  a  signal  to  the 
Indians,  who  were  to  be  concealed  in  the  immediate  vicinity. 


5.  What  claims  were  made  by  Mason  ?    What  did  he  do  ?    How  were  his 
claims  regarded  ? 

6.  What  took  place  m  1689? 

7.  Who  roused  the  indignation  of  the  Indians  ?    What  plan  did  they  concert 
to  destroy  the  town  ? 


1719. 


SETTLEMENT   OF   NEW    HAMPSHIRE. 


73 


DEAIH     or     MAJOR.     WALDROK 


8,  The  plan  Vv'as  successful.  At  midnight  the  signal 
was  given,  and  the  savages  rushed  into  the  houses.  Their 
vengeance  was  first  directed  toward  Waldron,  who,  after 
bravely  defending  himself,  was  overpowered  and  treated  with 
the  greatest  barbarity.  He  was  thrown  upon  a  table,  and 
each  of  the  savages  in  turn  gashing  his  breast  with  their 
knives,  exclaimed,  '•  Thus  I  cross  out  my  account."  At 
length  they  put  an  end  to  his  sufferings,  by  rolhng  him  from 
the  table  upon  the  point  of  his  own  sword. 

9.  Others  shared  a  similar  fate.  In  this  surprisal,  twenty- 
three  persons  were  killed,  and  twenty-nine  taken  prisoners. 
Many  houses  were  plundered  and  burned.  Other  towns 
were  attacked,  hundreds  were  killed,  and  many  carried  cap- 
tive to  Canada,  and  sold  to  the  French.  These  cruel  dep- 
redations continued  till  1697,  v/hen  peace  was  again  restored. 
In  1703.  the  colonies  were  again  involved  in  a  long  and 
bloody  war.  In  1719,  Londonderry  was  settled  by  emi- 
grants from  Ireland.     They  brought  over  the  foot-spinning- 


8.  Descril>e  their  treatment  of  Major  Waldron. 

9.  How  many  were  killed  and  taken  prisoiMrrs  ?     How  long  did  these  dep- 
redations continue  *    When  was  Londonderry  settled  ?     By  whom  ? 

7 


"74  HISTORY    OF    THE    I  NITF.D    STATES.  1627. 

wheel,  and   cultivatoti   potatoes,  and  wore  noted  for  their 
industry. 

10.  in  17'2'2,  war  broke  out  again  with  the  French  and 
Indians.  During:  this  war,  Captam  Jolni  Lovewell*  distin- 
guished himself  in  righting-  the  Indians.  In  one  of  his  ex- 
peditions he  surprised  a  company  of  ten  Indians  who  were 
asleep  around  a  tire.  The  Indians,  jumping-  up,  one  after  an- 
other, were  shot  on  the  spot,  except  one,  who,  attempting  to 
escape,  was  seized  by  Loye well's  dog.  and  shared  the  same 
fate  with  the  othei-s.  In  another  expedition,  Loyewell  and 
most  of  his  men  were  killed  b\-  the  Indians,  under  the  com- 
mand of  the  famous  Paugus. 

11.  In  1746,  the  ownei"s  of  Mason's  title  urged  again 
their  old  claim,  but  meeting  with  no  success,  they  soon 
yielded,  and  settled  this  unhappy  contest  by  an  honorable 
appropriation  of  their  lands.  In  their  grants  they  proyided 
for  the  liberal  support  of  the  ministers  of  the  gospel,  for  build- 
ing churches,  promoting  education,  and  internal  improye- 
ments.  The  jx'ople  of  rs'ew  Hampshire  now  enjoyed  a  good 
degree  of  prosperity  and  repose,  which  was  not  mlerrupted 
till  llie  opening  of  ilie  French  war. 


NEW  JERSEY. 


1.  New  .Tei"sey  was  first  settled  by  the  Dutch,  at  Bergen, 
about  KV24.  Shortly  after,  a  few  Dutch  families  settled  on 
the  western  shore  of  ?sew  York  bay.  In  UV27.  a  company 
of  Swedes,  under  the  patronage  of  Gustavus  Adolphus,  their 
king,  came  oyer  and  planted  a  colony  on  the  banks  of  the 
Delaware.     Three  3'eai^  after,  the  English  began  a  scttle- 

10.  Who  distiiig\iished  himsj^f  in  the  war  of  1722  ? 

11.  What  took  place  in  174^ 

1.  When  anil  by  whom  'u-as  New  Jersey  first  seuUnl*  Where  did  the 
Patch  commence  a  setUement  f  The  Swedes  '  The  Euglisl\ '  Who  Ivroke 
up  the  English  settlement  ? 

*  John  Lovevrell.  or  I.ovell.  was  disttiurtiished  in  the  Indian  wars  for  his  bold  and 
daring  exoloir*.  Ho  was  killed  at  a  place  calleti  Lovell  ;=  rond.  in  \7':?;v  He  was 
hexe  met  by  a  party  of  Indians;  under  Pancxis.  .\i  ihe  tinft  tiro  he  and  eiffht  of  his 
men  were  killed.  Dining  the  contest,  Chanxberljun  killevl  Pangus.  See  Easy 
Reader,  page  TJO. 


1665. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    NEW   JERSEY. 


15 


■^v  r 


o'S^.^ 


DANES      C.)  M  M  E  N  <;i  N(l      A     S  P:  T  Tli  E  M  K  N  T  . 


ment  at  Elsinp^burgh,  on  the  eastern  side  of  the  river.  This 
settlement  was  soon  broken  \ip  by  the  Swedes,  who  erected 
a  fort  on  the  same  spot  to  i]^uar(l  the  river. 

2.  'I'he  Swedes  continued  to  muhiply  their  settlements 
until  1 1)55,  when  they  were  concpiered  by  the  Dutch.  It  has 
been  stated  in  the  history  of  New  York,  that  the  Dutch 
claimed  all  the  territory  between  the  Connecticut  and  the 
Delaware.  The  same  territory  was  also  claimed  by  the 
kin«^  of  England,  who,  in  1064,  sent  over  a  fleet  which  com- 
pletely subdued  the  Dutch. 

3.  The  same  year  the  Duke  of  York,  to  whom  the  king 
had  granted  this  territory,  conveyed  all  the  lands  between 
the  Delaware  and  Hudson  to  Lord  Berkley  and  Sir  George 
Carteret.  These  possessions  were  called  New  Jersey,  in 
honor  of  Sir  George  Carteret,  who  had  been  governor  of  the 
island  of  Jersey.  They  appointed  Philip  Carteret  governor. 
He  arrived  at  Elizabethtown  in  16(35,  and  established  a 
government  over  the  colony,  just  and  liberal  in  its  principles. 

4.  For  several  years  the  colony  was  in  a  very  flourishing 


2.  When  were  the  Swedes  conquered?     When  were  the  Dutch  ? 

3.  What  grant  did  the  Duke  of  York  make  in  1664?     Why  were  the  pos- 
sessions called  New  Jersey  ?    Who  was  appointed  governor? 


76  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1682. 

State.  But  at  length  those  settlers  who  had  purchased  their 
land  of  the  Indians  before  the  English  took  possession,  re- 
fused to  pay  rent  for  it  to  the  government.  In  1672,  the 
discontented  party  rose  in  rebellion.  Their  complaints  were 
made  known  to  the  proprietors  in  England.  Some  conces- 
sions were  made,  and  some  privileges  granted,  which  satis- 
fied the  people. 

5.  About  this  time  Lord  Berkley  granted  all  his  claims 
in  the  colony  to  Edward  Billinge.  In  1677,  the  territory 
was  divided  into  East-Jei-sey  and  West-Jersey.  The  latter 
was  assigned  to  Billinge,  the  former  to  Sir  George  Carteret. 
Three  years  before  this  division  was  made,  the  Dutch  again 
took  possession  of  this  territory,  but  retained  it  only  a  few 
months.  In  consequence  of  this  conquest  by  the  Dutch,  Sir 
Edmund  Andross  declared  that  Berkley  and  Carteret  had 
lost  all  claim  to  the  territory.  In  1678,  he  therefore  extended 
his  tyrannical  sway  over  New  Jersey. 

6.  He  imposed  taxes  upon  the  people,  seized  and  impris- 
oned all  those  w^io  would  not  submit  to  his  authority.  The 
colonies  complained  to  the  duke,  and  the  case  was  at  length 
referred  to  commissioners,  and  decided  in  favor  of  the  people. 
Billinge  had  committed  the  management  of  affairs  in  West- 
Jersey  to  a  board  of  tmstees,  one  of  whom  was  William 
Penn.  In  1682,  William  Penn  and  eleven  others  of  his 
sect,  purchased  East  Jersey. 

7.  Penn  and  his  Quaker  brethren  now  appointed  Robert 
Barclay*  governor  of  East-Jersey  for  life  ;    but  peace  and 

4.  What  happened  in  1672  ?    Why  ? 

5.  What  grant  did  Lord  Berkley  make  ?  What  division  of  the  territory  was 
made  in  1676  I  To  whom  wcretliese  divisions  assigned?  In  consequence  of 
the  Dutch  conquest,  what  diii  Sir  Edmund  Andross  do  ?  How  do  you  like 
Sir  Edmund  Andross's  character  ?  Should  you  like  to  have  a  governor  like 
him  in  this  state  ? 

6.  In  consequence  of  the  treatment  they  received  from  Andross,  what  did 
the  people  do  ?  To  whose  management  was  West-Jersey  committed  ?  What 
was  done  in  1 682? 

7.  Who  was  appointed  governor  of  East-Jersey? 

*  Robert  Barclay,  an  eminent  writer  of  the  society  of  Quakei-s,  was  born  in  Scot-  • 
land,  in  164S,  of  an  ancient  and  honorable  family.    Uniting  all  the  advantages  of  a 
learned  edvication  to  great  natural  abilities,  he  early  distinguished  himself  by  his 
talents  and  zeal  in  defending  tlie  doctrines  of  the  sect  to  which  lie  belonged.    He 
published  many  works,  the  most  noted  of  which  was  his  •' Apology  for  the  Q.ua- 


1627.  SETTLEMENT    OF    DELAWARE.  71 

tranquillity  were  not  jet  secured.  There  had  been  so  many 
owners  of  the  land,  and  so  many  changes  in  the  govern- 
ment, that  no  one  could  tell  with  certainty  whether  he  had 
a  good  title  to  his  land  or  not.  Great  disorder  prevailed. 
This  state  of  confusion  continued  till  1702,  when  the  right 
of  government  was  surrendered  to  the  queen  of  England. 

8.  The  two  divisions  were  now  re-united,  under  the  old 
name  of  New  Jersey.  Lord  Cornbury  was  appointed  govern- 
or. The  same  governor  exercised  jurisdiction  over  the  prov- 
inces of  New  Jersey  and  New  York.  In  1738,  the  king,  in 
answer  to  a  petition  of  the  people  of  New  Jersey,  appointed 
a  separate  governor  over  that  colony.  The  office  was  first 
conferred  upon  Lewis  Morris,  under  whose  administration 
the  people  enjoyed  peace  and  prosperity.  The  population 
was  then  40,000.  The  same  year,  the  college  named  Nas- 
sau Hall  was  founded  at  Princeton.  The  settlers  of  New 
Jersey  purchased  their  lands  of  the  Indians,  and  by  their 
mildness  and  hospitality,  secured  their  friendship. 


DELAWARE. 


1.  In  1627,  a  company  of  Swedes  and  Finns  arrived  in 
Delaware  bay,  and  landed  at  Cape  Henlopen.  They  were 
so  much  pleased  with  the  richness  and  beauty  of  the  coun- 
try, that  they  called  it  Paradise  Point.  They  purchased  a 
large  tract  of  land  of  the  Indians,  and  called  it  New  Sweden, 
extending  from  Cape  Henlopen  to  the  falls  in  the  Delaware 
river  opposite  to  Trenton.  Their  first  settlement  was  on 
Christiana  creek,  near  Wilmington. 

8.  Under  what  name  were  East  and  West  Jersey  again  united  in  1702? 
"Who  was  appointed  governor?  When  had  New  Jersey  a  separate  governor? 
Who  was  appointed  to  this  office?  When  was  Nassau  Hall  college  founded? 
How  many  years  since  New  Jersey  was  settled? 

1.  When  and  by  whom  was  Delaware  first  settled?  How  long  since? 
What  did  they  call  the  country  ?     Where  was  the  first  settlement  made  ? 

kers."  This  work  was  published  in  Latin,  in  1676,  and  was  quickly  translated  into 
the  English,  Dutch,  French,  German,  and  Spanish  lanisniages.  He  wasmuch  perse- 
cuted, and  several  times  imprisoned  in  consequence  of  his  religious  sentiments.  He 
spent  the  close  of  his  life,  in  the  bosom  of  a  large  family,  in  quiet  and  peace.  He 
died  in  1690,  in  the  42d  year  of  his  age. 

7* 


78 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UyiTED    STATES 


1641, 


2.  Being"  annoyed  by  the  Dutch,  who  occupied  the  east- 
em  bank  of  the  Delaware,  the  Swedes  built  a  fort  on  the  isl- 
and of  Tinicum,  about  1:2  miles  southwest  of  Philadelphia, 
and  this  for  a  time  became  the  seat  of  their  g-ovemment. 
John  Printz  was  their  first  governor.  They  erected  a  num- 
ber of  fons  along-  the  river,  to  protect  their  settlements  from 
the  Dutch,  who  were  now  settling  on  the  eastern  side.  In 
1641.  the  Dutch  crossed  the  river,  and  built  a  fort  at  New 
Castle.  The  Swedes  claimed  the  territory,  and  remonstrated 
against  these  proceedings. 


a  w  5  r  I  s  H 


V  S  S  >•  0  K     TAKING     THE     X>VT  > 


3.  Risingh,  the  second  Swedish  governor,  with  a  band  of 
thirty  men.  \'isited  the  fort  under  pretense  of  friendship. 
Being  admitted,  and  kindly  treated  by  the  Dutch,  he  seized 
this  opportunity  to  take  possession  of  the  fort.  This  act  of 
treachery  exasperated  the  Dutch  governor  of  New  York, 
and  he  came  with  a  fleet  of  seven  ships  and  took  possession 
of  all  the  Swedish  settlements.     Manv  of  the  Swedes  were 


2,  What  town  became  their  seat  of  goTemmtct  .'     Who  was  their  first  gor- 
emor  ?     "What  did  the  Dusch  do  in  1641  ? 
-   3.  How  did  the  Swedes  get  possessicaa  <rf  the  ton  ?    What  did  the  Dutch  do 

in  consequence  ? 


1630.  PETTLEMENT    OF    CONNECTICIT.  79 

seized  and  transported  to  Holland  ;  the  remainder  submitted 
to  the  Dutch. 

4.  In  1G64,  the  English  conquered  the  Dutch  and  took 
possession  of  all  their  dominions.  The  settlement  on  the 
Delaware  continued  under  the  English  governor  of  New- 
York,  until  16S-2.  At  this  time,  William  Penn  obtained  a 
grant  of  the  several  tracts  of  land  which  now  constitute  the 
State  of  Delaware.  Thej  were  called  the  "  Territories." 
and  for  many  years  were  imder  the  government  of  Penn- 
svlvania. 

5.  The  territories  were  divided  into  three  counties.  Each 
county  sent  six  delegates  to  the  general  assemblj-  of  Penn- 
sylvania. In  consequence  of  the  fertility  of  the  soil,  and  the 
liberal  policy  of  the  government,  Delaware  increased  rapidly 
in  population,  and  at  the  commencement  of  the  revolution, 
was  in  a  prosperous  condition. 


CONNECTICUT. 


1.  In  1630,  the  territory  now  constituting  the  State  of 
Connecticut,  was  granted  by  the  Plymouth  Company  in 
England,  to  the  Earl  of  Warwick,  and  in  the  following  year, 
he  transferred  it  to  Lord  Say-and-Seal,  Lord  Brooke,  and 
others.  During  the  same  year,  Mr.  Winslow,  governor  of 
the  Plymouth  colony,  with  several  of  his  people,  by  the  in- 
vitation of  an  Indian  chief  who  wished  the  Enghsh  to  settle 
among  them,  visited  the  country  along  the  Connecticut 
river,  and  tinding  the  Indians  friendly,  and  desirous  of  trad- 
ing with  the  whites,  he  selected  a  spot  for  a  trading  house. 
The  Dutch  at  New  York,  anticipating  the  designs  of  Wins- 
low,  sent  a  company  to  erect  a  fort  at  Hartford,  to  prevent 
the  English  from  forming  a  settlement  in  that  region. 

4.  What  happened  in  1664  ?  In  1682?  How  many  years  since  the  Swedes 
first  landed  iu  Delaware  ?  Where  did  the  Swedes  come  from?  Where  the 
Finns  ? 

5.  Into  how  many  coimties  was  the  territory  divided?  How  is  Delaware 
bounded  ?     What  is  its  capital  ? 

1.  When  and  to  whom  was  the  territory  of  Connecticnt  granted?  Who  vis- 
ited the  country  soon  after  this  ?  What  did  he  do?  Wliat  did  the  Dutch  do 
in  consequence  ? 


80 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1635. 


OLMES     PASSING     T 


DUTCH     FORT     AT     HARTFORD 


2.  In  1633,  "Winslow,  having  prepared  the  frame  of  a 
building,  tilted  out  a  party  from  Plymouth,  under  the  direc- 
tion of  Capt.  Wm.  Hohiies.  He  sailed  up  the  river,  and  as 
he  was  passing-  the  fort,  the  Dutch  hailed  him,  and  ordered 
him  to  stop,  and  threatened  to  fire  in  case  he  did  not.  But 
Holmes  paid  no  regard  to  their  orders,  passed  by  without 
injury,  ascended  the  river,  landed,  and  set  up  the  building 
within  the  present  limits  of  the  town  of  Windsor. 

3.  In  1G35,  a  number  of  families  from  Massachusetts 
began  settlements  at  Wethersfield  and  "Windsor.  The  next 
winter,  some  of  them  being  destitute  of  provisions,  and  in 
danger  of  staiTation,  returned  through  the  cold  and  snow  to 
their  friends  in  Massachusetts.  In  October  of  the  same 
year,  John  Winthrop  arrived  from  England,  with  orders  from 
the  company,  who  now  owned  the  territory,  to  build  a  fort  at 
the  mouth  of  the  river. 


2.  "NMiat  took  place  in  1633  '  Would  you  have  done  as  Capt.  Holmes  did? 
'V^'hat  did  Holmes  say  when  the  Dutch  threatened  to  lire  unless  he  struck  his 
colors  and  stopped  ?  Ans.  "  Fire,"  said  he.  "  fire  and  be  hanged.  Who  cares  for 
your  Dutch  powder?  I  obey  Governor  Winslow,  not  you."  Where  was  the 
first  house  erected  in  Connecticut  ■     When  ' 

3.  What  towns  were  settled  m  1635  ■     Who  arrived  in  October  ? 


1639.  SETTLEMENT    OF    CONNECTICUT.  81. 

4.  In  the  summer  of  1635,  the  Rev.  Mr.  Hooker,  and  about 
one  hundred  persons  belonging  to  his  congregation,  left 
Massachusetts,  and  laid  the  foundation  of  Hartford.  In 
their  long  journey  through  the  wilderness,  they  had  no  guide 
but  their  compass,  no  cover  but  the  heavens,  and  their  prin- 
cipal food  was  the  milk  of  the  cows,  which  they  drove 
before  them.  The  Indians  in  Connecticut  were  very  numer- 
ous. Thirty  years  after  its  settlement  there  were  about 
twenty  Indians  to  one  white  man.  The  first  settlers  suf- 
fered eveiy  sort  of  barbarity  from  these  cruel  savages. 

5.  In  i637,  the  troops  from  this  colony  distinguished 
themselves  for  bravery  and  fortitude,  in  the  war  against  the 
Pequots,  some  account  of  which  has  already  been  given  in 
the  history  of  Massachusetts.  In  June,  1637,  the  Rev.  John 
Davenport,  Mr.  Eaton,  and  other  gentlemen  of  wealth  and 
respectability  from  England,  anived  at  Boston.  In  1638, 
they  founded  the  colony  of  New  Haven  at  (iuinnipiac,  the 
Indian  name  of  that  region. 

6.  The  first  Sabbath  after  their  aiTival,  Mr.  Davenport 
preached  to  the  colony  under  a  large  oak  tree.  A  day  of 
fasting  and  praj^er  was  appointed,  and  at  the  close  of  it,  they 
all  bound  themselves  by  a  solemn  covenant,  "  to  be  gov- 
erned in  all  things,  both  civil  and  religious,  by  the  rules  and 
principles  of  the  Bible." 

7.  In  1639,  June  14,  the  people  of  this  colony  met  in  a  large 
barn,  and  adopted  a  constitution.  It  provided  that  none  but 
members  of  some  church  should  be  permitted  to  vote,  or  take 
any  part  in  government ;  that  all  voters  should  meet  once  a 
year  to  choose  the  otficers  of  the  colony ;  and  that  the  word 
of  God  should  be  their  only  rule,  as  well  in  civil  as  in  reli- 
gious aifairs.  In  short,  "  The  Bible  was  their  law-book, 
and  church  members  the  only  freemen."     The  same  year, 


4.  How  many  years  since  Hartford  was  settled? 

5.  When  and  by  whom  was  the  colony  of  New  Haven  founded  ?  The  Con- 
necticut colony  embraced  the  towns  on  the  Connecticut  river.  The  New- 
Haven  colony  embraced  the  towns  bordering  on  Long  Island  sound.  They 
remained  separate  and  distinct  colonies  till  1G65. 

G.  Where  was  the  first  religious  meeting  held  in  New  Haven  ?  How  did 
they  agree  to  be  governed  ? 

7.  Wlien  and  where  did  they  adopt  a  constitution  ? 


82  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1650. 

Jan.  24,  the  people  of  Hartford,  Wethersfield,  and  Windsor, 
assembled  at  Hartford,  and  adopted  a  constitution  for  the 
colony  of  Connecticut,  thus  establishing  for  themselves  a 
separate  government.  The  constitution*  thus  formed  was 
of  unexampled  liberality,  carefully  guarding  and  protecting 
the  rights  of  all  the  people.  It  provided  that  the  members 
of  the  towns  who  should  take  the  oath  of  allegiance  to  the 
commonwealth,  should  be  entitled  to  the  elective  franchise, 
or  right  of  voting ;  that  the  governor  and  legislature  should 
be  chosen  annually  by  ballot ;  that  the  representatives  should 
be  apportioned  among  the  different  towns  according  to  pop- 
ulation ;  that  the  general  court,  or  assembly,  alone  should 
have  power  to  make  and  repeal  laws,  and  should  hold  two 
sessions  each  year,  &c.  Previously  to  this,  the  people  of  the 
colony  had  been  governed  by  the  laws  of  Massachusetts. 

8.  About  this  time,  George  Fenwick  and  others  began  a 
settlement  at  the  mouth  of  the  river,  which,  in  honor  of 
Lords  Say-and-Seal,  and  Brooke,  was  called  Saybrooh.  For 
many  years  they  enacted  their  own  laws,  and  made  their 
own  regulations;  but  in  1664,  this  town  became  a  part  of 
the  Connecticut  colony. 

9.  The  Dutch,  claiming  the  territory  of  Connecticut,  con- 
tinued their  hostilities,  and  excited  the  Indians  against  the 
colonies.  In  1650,  a  treaty  of  peace  was  made  with  the 
English,  by  which  the  Dutch  gave  up  their  claim  to  the  ter- 
ritory. But  soon  after,  the  Dutch  governor  was  detected  in 
forming  a  conspiracy  with  the  savages,  for  the  entire  exter- 
mination of  the  EngHsh. 

10.  At  this  time  the  colonies  of  New  England  were  all, 
except  Rhode  Island,  united  in  a  confederacy  for  their  mutual 
protection.  New  Haven  and  Connecticut,  alarmed  at  their 
danger,  laid  before  the  commissioners  of  the  United  Colonies 
the  designs  of  the  Dutch.  At  first  agents  were  sent  to  the 
Dutch  governor ;  but  obtaining  from  him  no  satisfactory  ex- 

8.  When  was  Saybrook  settled  ? 

9.  What  took  place  in  1650?     Did  the  Dutch  continue  friendly? 

10.  What  did  the  colonies  of  New  Haven  and  Connecticut  do  ? 

-  *  "  This  is  the  first  example  in  history  of  a  written  constitution,  constituting 
a  government  and  defining  its  powers."— L.  Bacon,  D.D. 


168G.  SETTLEMENT    OF    CONNECTICUT.  83 

plano-tion  of  his  conduct,  the  commissioners  thought  it  neces- 
sary to  appeal  to  arms. 

11.  At  this  critical  moment,  the  court  of  Massachusetts 
resolved,  "  that  no  decision  of  the  commissioners  should  bind 
the  colony  to  engage  in  war."  This  was  a  gross  violation 
of  the  articles  of  the  confederacy.  Connecticut  and  New 
Haven,  not  being  able  to  defend  themselves  against  their 
enemies,  without  the  aid  of  Massachusetts,  implored  the  as- 
sistance of  Cromwell,  who  was  then  at  the  head  of  afffiirs 
in  England.  He  immediately  sent  a  fleet  against  the  Dutch ; 
but  soon  after  its  arrival  in  New  England,  the  news  of  peace 
between  Holland  and  England  reached  the  colomes,  which 
put  an  end  to  all  hostilities. 

12.  On  the  restoration  of  Charles  II..,  .lohn  Winthrop, 
governor  of  the  Connecticut  colony,  was  sent  to  England  to 
obtain  from  the  king  a  royal  charter  for  the  colony.  He 
presented  to  Charles  a  ring  of  great  value,  which  his  father, 
Charles  L,  had  given  to  Winthrop's  grandfather.  Pleased 
with  the  gift,  the  king  granted  a  charter  very  liberal  in  its 
privileges,  and  which  confirmed  all  the  provisions  of  their 
constitution.  The  charter  included  New  Haven ;  but  that 
colony,  not  willing  to  give  up  its  entire  independence,  did 
not  submit  to  the  regulations  of  the  charter  until  1665,  when 
the  two  colonies  were  united. 

13.  In  1686,  King  James  II.,  dissatisfied  with  the  spirit  of 
liberty  which  prevailed  in  the  colonies,  ordered  the  people  of 
Connecticut  to  surrender  their  charter.  Sir  Edmund  An- 
dross,  his  agent,  and  at  that  time  governor  of  New  England, 
finding  the  people  of  that  colony  unwilling  to  submit  to  the 
king's  order,  marched  with  a  band  of  troops  to  Hartford. 

14.  The  legislature  was  then  in  session.  Sir  Edmund 
entered  the  court-house  and  demanded  the  charter.  The 
matter  was  debated  until  evening,  when  the  charter  was 

11.  What  was  the  conduct  of  Ma.S8achu.setts?  From  whom  was  assistance 
implored  ?  What  did  Cromwell  do?  What  event  rendered  assistance  unne- 
cessary ? 

12.  Who  was  sent  to  obtain  a  charter  for  Connecticut?  State  the  result, 
Whf;n  were  the  colonies  of  Connecticut  and  New  flaven  united? 

Hi.   What  took  p\Hv.ci  in  1680  ?     What  did  Sir  Edmunrl  Andross  do? 

14.  State  what  took  place  at  Hartford.     What  has  this  tree  been  called 


84  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1692. 

brought  forth  and  laid  on  the  table.  The  excitement  was 
great,  and  the  house  was  crowded.  In  the  heat  of  the  dis- 
cussion, the  candles  were  all  suddenly  extinguished.  When 
they  were  relighted,  the  charter  was  gone.  Amid  the  dark- 
ness and  confusion,  a  Captain  Wadsworth  had  seized  it, 
and  escaping  from  the  house,  had  concealed  it  in  the  hollow 
of  an  oak  tree. 

15.  Andross  now  took  upon  himself  the  absolute  control 
of  the  colony.  Soon  after  this,  King  James  was  driven 
from  the  throne,  and  Connecticut,  under  the  favor  of  King 
Wilham,  who  succeeded  him  in  1688,  enjoyed  her  former 
privileges.  But  in  1692,  the  king  appointed  Colonel 
Fletcher  governor  of  New  York,  and  commissioned  him  to 
take  command  of  the  militia  of  Connecticut.  By  the  charter, 
this  power  was  conferred  upon  her  own  governor ;  and  he 
was  determined  to  maintain  it,  and  was  supported  in  this 
determination  by  the  people  of  the  colony. 

16.  The  next  year  Fletcher  repaired  to  Hartford  ;  but 
was  promptly  informed  that  the  militia  would  not  be  placed 
under  his  command.  He  then  ordered  out  the  troops  of 
that  city.  This  being  done,  he  appeared  in  front  of  the  line, 
and  commanded  one  of  his  officers  to  read  to  them  his  com- 
mission from  the  king.  Wadsworth,  the  captain  of  the 
militia,  immediately  commanded  the  drums  to  beat.  Fletcher 
demanded  silence,  and  ordered  the  officer  to  read  on.  "  Drum, 
drum!"  cried  Wadsworth.  The  order  was  obe^red,  and 
nothing  was  heard  but  the  roar  of  drums.  "  Silence, 
silence!"  exclaimed  Fletcher,  and  a  pause  succeeded. 
Wadsworth  then  turning  to 'Colonel  Fletcher,  boldly  ad- 
dressed him,  "  If  I  am  interrupted  again,  I  will  make  the 
sun  shine  through  you  in  a  moment,"  and  again  ordered 
the  drums  to  beat.     Struck  with  this  bold  address,  Fletcher 

since  that  event  ?  Am.  The  charter  oak.  It  is  still  standing  in  the  southern 
part  of  the  cit)^  of  Hartford. 

15.  What  event  occurred  soon  after,  favorable  to  the  colony  ?  What  took 
place  in  1692  ?  By  the  charter  of  Connecticut,  who  was  commander-in-chief 
of  the  militia  ? 

16.  When  did  Col.  Fletcher  go  to  Hartford?  For  what  purpose?  Did  he 
obtain  the  command  of  the  militia  ?    What  occurred  ?    Did  Capt.  Wadsworth 

■  do  right  ? 


1^08. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    CONNECTICUT. 


85 


no  longer  persisted.     The  case  was  afterward  referred  to 
the  king,  and  decided  in  favor  of  Connecticut. 


"WADS  WORTH     SILENCING     FLETCHE 


17.  In  1700,  a  number  of  clergymen,  desiring  to  increase 
the  means  of  education,  met  at  Branford  and  founded  Yale 
College  on  an  endowment  of  books.  The  next  year  it  was 
incorporated  with  an  annual  grant  of  £120,  and  established 
at  Saybrook  5  but  in  1717,  the  location  being  considered 
inconvenient,  it  was  removed  to  New  Haven.  It  derived  its 
name  from  Elihu  Yale,  one  of  its  most  liberal  patrons.  In 
respect  to  numbers  and  reputation,  it  is  now  one  of  the  first 
hterary  institutions  in  the  country. 

18.  In  1708,  the  people  of  Connecticut  estabhshed  an 
ecclesiastical  constitution.  The  ministers  and  delegates  of 
the  churches  met  at  Saybrook,  and  framed  the  celebrated 
creed,  called  ^'The  Saybrook  PlatformP  All  churches  which 
acknowledged    this    platform  were    established    by   law. 

17.  When  was  Yale  College  founded?  Where  was  it  first  established? 
When  and  to  what  place  was  it  removed  ? 

18.  What  was  done  in  1708  ?  How  many  years  since  the  first  settlement 
was  made  in  Connecticut  ? 

8 


86  HieiORT    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1634. 

Other  churches,  however,  were  permitted  to  regulate  their 
own  concerns  as  they  chose. 

19.  In  the  wars  with  the  Indians,  Connecticut  suffered 
much,  though  less  than  some  of  the  other  colonies.  Her 
troops  were  ever  ready  to  fly  to  the  assistance  of  their 
brethren,  and  were  distinguished  for  their  bravery  and  suc- 
cess. After  the  death  of  Philip,  she  was  seldom  molested 
by  the  Indians,  and  for  many  j'ears  enjoyed  uninterrupted 
prosperity. 


MARYLAND. 


1 .  We  have  seen  that  the  tirst  settlement  of  Massachusetts 
and  Rhode  Island  was  owing  to  religious  persecution.  The 
same  spirit  prevailed  against  the  Koman  Catholics,  which 
led  to  the  settlement  of  Maryland.  In  1032,  George  Cal- 
vert,* called  Lord  Baltimore,  a  distmguished  member  of  that 
sect,  applied  to  Charles  I.  for  a  grant  of  territory  north  of 
Virginia,  for  the  pui-pose  of  establishing  a  settlement  on  the 
principles  of  religious  liberty.  Before  the  grant  had  passed 
the  royal  seal,  he  died.  About  two  months  after,  the  terri- 
tory was  granted  in  the  name  of  Cecil  Calvert,  Lord  Balti- 
more's eldest  son  and  heir.  In  honor  of  the  queen  Maria, 
the  colony  was  called  Maryland. 

2.  Lord  Baltimore  appointed  his  brother,  Leonard  Calvert, 
governor  of  the  province.  He,  with  about  200  Catholic 
emigrants,  arrived  at  the  mouth  of  the  Potomac  in   1G34. 

19.  What  is  said  of  the  troops  of  Connecticut  I 

1.  What  led  to  the  settlement  of  Maryland?  How  did  LorI  Baltimore 
wish  to  establish  a  settlement  ? 

2.  When,  where,  and  by  whom,  was  the  tirst  settlement  made  ? 

*  Geortre  Calvert  was  born  in  Yorkshire.  England,  in  15J?2.  He  possessed  supe- 
rior talents,  and  was  ktiichtetl  by  James  I.,  and  made  clerk  of  the  privy  council  ; 
and  in  1619,  w;\s  appointed  one  ot^tbe  secretaries  of  state.  This  post  he  resigned  in 
UV24.  in  consequenot'  ot'  liavinji  l^ecome  a  Roman  Catholic.  Notwithstanding  this, 
he  retainetl  the  coiuideuce  oltbe  kins;,  .ind  in  1625.  was  created  Lord  Baltimore,  or 
baron  of  Baltimore,  in  the  kiujidont  of  li-el;uid.  He  dud  at  London.  UVtt2.  beloved 
and  respected  by  all.  It  is  said  of  him,  that  he  took  as  much  pleasure  in  hearing 
the  sentiments  ol  others,  as  in  delivering  his  own,  luid  was  ever  conspicuoiis  tor  liis 
good  sense  and  moderation. 


1G50.  SETTLEMENT    OF    MARYLAND.  87 

After  exploring*  tlie  country  for  a  few  weeks,  thcj  purchased 
the  village  of  Yoamaco  of  the  Indians,  and  named  it  St. 
Mary's.  Here  they  found  comfortable  habitations  ;  and  the 
soil  being  somewhat  cultivated,  they  had  a  sufficient  supply 
of  provisions. 

3.  Many  circumstances  favored  the  settlement  of  Mary- 
land. Although  Lord  Baltimore  and  his  family  were 
Cathohcs,  and  had  been  severely  oppressed  and  persecuted 
in  England,  they  granted  equal  protection  to  all  Christian- 
denominations  in  their  hew  colony,  while  persecution  pre- 
vailed in  the  northern  provinces.  The  soil  and  climate  were 
very  inviting.  The  Indians  were  perfectly  friendly.  The 
people  were  permitted  to  make  their  own  laws.  These 
things  led  to  the  rapid  increase  of  the  colony. 

4.  The  first  assembly,  which  met  soon  after  they  arrived, 
was  composed  of  all  the  freemen  in  the  colony.  This  mode 
of  legislation  was  soon  altered.  In  1639,  the  "House  of 
Assembly"  was  made  up  of  representatives  chosen  by  the 
people,  and  persons  appointed  by  the  proprietor,  together 
with  the  governor  and  secretary.  These  all  met  in  the 
same  room.  A  change  took  place  in  1650,  by  which  this 
body  was  divided  into  a  lower  house,  consisting  of  repre- 
sentatives, and  an  upper  house,  consisting  of  the  governor 
and  council,  appointed  by  the  proprietor. 

5.  The  peace  of  this  colony  was  soon  disturbed  by  Wil- 
liam Clayborne.  By  circulating  false  reports  among  the 
Indians,  he  excited  them  to  a  war,  which  involved  the  col- 
ony in  much  distress  for  several  years.  Clayborne  was  tried 
and  condemned  ;  but  before  the  day  of  his  execution,  he  made 
his  escape.  At  length  he  appealed  to  the  king,  but  his  ap- 
peal was  in  vain.  During  the  civil  war  in  England,  he 
joined  the  party  opposed  to  the  king.     Soon  after,  he  re- 


3.  What  circumstance  favored  the  settlement  of  Maryland?  How  does  the 
conduct  of  the  first  settlors  of  Maryland  compare  with  that  of  the  first  settlers 
of  Massachusetts  ? 

4.  When  did  the  first  assembly  meet?  Of  whom  was  it  composed?  When 
was  this  mode  of  legislation  altered?  Of  whom  did  the  House  of  Assembly 
consist?     What  change  took  place  in  1650? 

5.  By  whom  was  the  peace  of  the  colony  disturbed  ?  How  ?  When  did  ho 
excite  a  rebellion? 


86 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1G76. 


INDIANS     ATTACKING     SETTLKRS     AT     WORK     IN     THE     FIELDS. 


turned  to  Maryland,  and  in  1645  excited  a  rebellion  against 
the  government. 

6.  But  the  contending  parties  in  England  soon  occasioned 
a  civil  war  in  the  colony.  The  Catholics  were  completely 
overpowered,  and  an  act  was  passed  declaring  them  with- 
out the  protection  of  law.  Laws  also  were  enacted  against 
the  Gluakers.  At  the  restoration  of  Charles  II.,  in  1660, 
Cecil  Calvert  recovered  his  right  to  the  province,  and  his 
son,  Philip  Calvert,  was  appointed  governor,  and  harmony 
was  again  restored  in  the  colony.  At  this  time  the  popula- 
tion of  Maiyland  was  about  12,000. 

7.  Cecil  Calvert,  Lord  Baltimore,  the  proprietor  and  found- 
er of  the  colony,  died  in  1676.  He  was  greatly  distinguished 
for  wisdom,  benevolence,  and  liberality  of  sentiment.  His 
memory  is  gratefully  cherished  by  the  people  of  Maryland. 
The  city  of  Baltimore  was  named  after  him.  By  his  death 
his  eldest  son,  Charles,  became  heir  to  his  estate  and  title. 

6.  What  law  was  passed  against  the  Catholics,  and  against  the  Quakers  ? 
"Who  was  appointed  governor  in  ICGO? 

_  7.  When  did  Lord  Baltimore  die  ;  and  what  was  his  character?    What  city 
in  Maryland  is  named  after  him  ? 


1636. 


SETTLEMENT    OF   RHODE   ISLAND. 


89 


«    The  peace  of  the  colony  was  again  disturbed  in  1689, 
mained  for  many  years. 


RHODE  ISLAND. 


tillCP-ATlON     OF     ROGER     WILLIAMS 

1    The  first  settlement  m  Rhode  Island  ^^^  ^^^C'^^^^ 
IfiSe  bv  Roo-er  WiUiams,*  who  was  banished  from  Massa 
husktl,  as^fore  mentioned.     He  P---i^;^;^;^^ 
of  the  Narragansets,  obtained  a  tract  of  land  fiom  them, 

T^^^^^iX^n.  «a3  bora  in  Wales,  in  1093.    lie  was  regularly  educated,  and 

3 


90  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1638. 

a  place  called  Moshassuck,  and  began  to  build  a  town, 
which,  in  acknowledgment  of  God's  goodness  to  him  in 
time  of  trouble  and  distress,  he  called  Providence,  The  set- 
tlement was  called  Providence  Plantation. 

2.  Williams  maintained  the  doctrine,  that  the  civil  law 
should  provide  equally  for  the  protection  of  all  Christian  de- 
nominations, and  not  interfere  with  the  faith  of  any.  For 
these  just  and  noble  sentiments  he  had  suffered  much  per- 
secution ;  and  he  now  determined  to  test  their  practical 
effect,  by  founding  a  colony  on  the  broadest  principles  of 
civil  and  religious  liberty,  granting  equal  toleration  and  en- 
tire liberty  of  conscience  to  all  religious  sects. 

3.  The  colony  soon  became  popular,  and  many  joined  it 
from   other   settlements.     In    1638,  William  Coddington,* 

•• 

2.  What  doctrine  did  Williams  maintain  ?  How  does  his  conduct  compare 
•with  that  of  the  first  settlers  of  Massachusetts  colony  ? 

3.  What  took  place  in  1638? 

admitted  to  orders  in  the  Church  of  England.  Having  embraced  the  doctrines  oi 
the  Puritans,  he  embarlted  for  America,  wliere  he  arrived  with  his  wife,  in  Feb- 
ruary, 1(J31.  He  preached  in  Plymouth  about  two  years,  and,  in  1634,  was  settled 
over'the  church  in  Salem.  W^hile  here,  and  at  Plymouth,  he  maintained  the  char- 
acter he  had  acquired  in  England,  that  of  "  a  godly  man  and  zealous  preacher." 
His  just  views  of  religious  liberty  soon  gave  ofiense.  He  insisted  that  the  civil  ma- 
gistrate is  bound  to  grant  equal  protection  to  every  denomination  of  Christians, 
and  that  he  has  no  right  "  to  deal  in  matters  of  conscience  and  religion  ;"  that  every 
person  should  be  permitted  to  worship  God  agreeably  to  the  dictates  of  his  own 
conscience.  These  doctrines  were  too  liberal  for  the  age  in  which  he  lived.  He 
•was  brought  before  the  court,  tried,  and  banished  from  the  colony,  in  1635.  Hav- 
ing left  Massachusetts,  he  proceeded  southward,  and  purchased  a  tract  of  land  of 
the  Narraganset  Indians,  and  laid  the  foundation  of  Providence.  Having  embraced 
the  sentiments  of  the  Baptists,  he  was  baptized  in  March,  1639,  and  while  he  en- 
joyed liberty  of  conscience  himself,  he  granted  it  to  all  others.  He  studied  the  In- 
dian languages,  and  used  his  endeavors  to  impart  to  the  savages  the  blessings  of 
the  gospel.  He  enjoyed  the  highest  confidence  of  his  fellow-citizens,  and  was  sev- 
eral times  elected  to  the  ofQce  of  governor.  He  died  in  16S3,  at  Providence.  He 
was  a  man  of  superior  talents,  of  unblemished  moral  character,  and  of  ardent 
piety  ;  unyielding  in  opinions  which  he  conceived  to  be  right,  and  not  to  be  diverted 
by  threats  or  tlattery  Irom  Avhat  he  believed  to  be  duty.  His  memory  is  deserving 
of  lasting  honor,  for  the  correctness  of  his  opinions  respecting  liberty  of  conscience, 
and  for  the  generous  toleration  which  he  established.  With  true  magnanimity  and 
nobleness  of  soul,  he  exercised  all  his  intiuence  with  the  Indians  in  favor  of  Massa- 
chusetts, and  ever  evinced  the  greatest  friendship  for  the  colony  from  which  he  had 
been  driven.  He  is  juslly  accused  of  frequent  changes  in  his  religious  sentiments  ; 
but  these  changes  sliould  be  ascribed  to  conviction,  rather  than  any  regard  to 
worldly  interests. 

'  William  Coddington  was  a  native  of  England.  He  arrived  at  Sa,lem  in  1630, 
and  was  tor  a  number  of  years  a  magistrate  in  the  Massachusetts  colony.  Becom- 
ing involved  in  the  religioiis  contentious  at  that  time,  he  removed,  in  1638,  to  Rhode 
Island,  and  was  the  principal  instrument  in  effecting  the  original  settlement  of  that 
place.  His  name  stands  first  on  the  covenant  signed  by  eighteen  persons,  1638, 
forming  themselves  into  a  body  politic,  "  to  be  governed  by  the  laws  of  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  the  King  of  kings."    It  was  soon  found  necessary,  however,  to  have 


1664.  SETTLEMENT    OF    RHODE    ISLAND.  91 

with  many  others,  came  from  Massachusetts,  and  settled 
on  the  island,  now  called  Rhode  Island.  The  settlements 
on  the  island  rapidly  extended,  and  were  palled  the  Rhode 
Island  Plantations. 

4.  In  1643,  Rhode  Island  petitioned  to  be  admitted  into 
the  celebrated  union  of  the  New  England  colonies.  Ply- 
mouth, declaring  the  settlements  of  this  colony  to  be  within 
the  limits  of  her  territorj^,  would  not  consent  to  the  petition. 
But  after  a  warm  discussion  beween  the  comrniss-ioners,  it 
was  voted  that  Rhode  Island  should  enjoy  all  the  benefits 
of  the  union,  provided  she  would  submit  to  the  jurisdiction 
of  Plymouth.  Spurning  the  idea  of  such  submission,  she 
maintained  her  independence,  and  was  not  associated  with 
the  other  colonies. 

5.  In  consequence  of  this,  Roger  Williams  went  the  same 
year  (1643)  to  England,  and  obtained  from  the  parliament, 
the  year  following,  a  free  and  absolute  charter  of  civil  gov- 
ernment for  the  two  plantations,  dr  colonies.  In  1647,  dele- 
gates from  the  several  towns  met  in  general  assembly  at 
Portsmouth,  adopted  a  constitution,  and  framed  a  code  of 
laws,  which  closed  with  the  declaration  that,  '-all  men 
might  w^alk  as  their  consciences  persuaded  them,  without 
molestation,  every  one  in  the  name  of  his  God."  The  exec- 
utive power  was  placed  in  the  hands  of  a  president,  or  gov- 
ernor, and  four  assistants.  It  was  not,  however,  until  1652, 
that  the  two  plantations,  or  colonies,  were  fully  united  under 
one  government. 

6.  In  1663,  Charles  II.  granted  a  charter  to  Rhode  Island, 
which  embraced  the  principles  on  which  the  colony  was 
founded,  and  those  of  the  charter  obtained  from  parliament 
in  1644.     It  enjoined  the  greatest  toleration  in  matters  of 

4.  What  prevented  Rhode  Island  from  joining  the  confederacy  ? 

5.  What  took  place  in  1643  ?  When  was  the  government  of  Rhode  Lsland 
first  organized  '(  Where  is  Portsmouth?  Ans.  It  is  in  the  northern  part  of  the 
island  of  Rhode  Island,  seven  miles  north  of  Newport. 

6.  When  did  the  colony  obtain  a  charter?  Of  whom?  What  did  it  en- 
join ?     What  did  the  legislature  do  in  1664  ?     What  in  subsequent  acts  ? 

something  more  definite.  He  was  chosen  governor  of  Rhode  Island  seven  years 
successively,  until  the  island  was  incorporated  with  Providence  Plantation,  in  1647. 
He  died  in  1678.  He  was  ever  a  warm  advocate  for  liberty  of  conscience,  and  he 
founded  his  little  colony  on  the  principle  of  religious  toleration. 


I 


92  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED   STATES.  1663. 

religion,  allowing  every  man  to  worship  God  agreeably  to 
the  dictates  of  his  own  conscience.  This  broad  principle 
of  religious  toleration  was  reasserted  by  the  legislature  in 
May,  1664,  and  in  subsequent  acts,  the  rights  of  conscience 
and  freedom  of  mind  were  strictly  respected.  The  charter 
government  of  this  colony  was  dissolved  by  Andross  while 
he  was  governor  of  New  England,  but  was  resumed  again 
directly  after  his  imprisonment,  and  continued  in  force  until 
1842,  when  a  state  constitution  was  adopted. 

7.  In  1764,  Brown  University  was  founded  by  Nicholas 
Brown,  at  Warren ;  but,  in  1770,  w^as  removed  to  Provi- 
dence, and  is  now  a  flourishing  institution.  At  this  time 
the  population  of  the  colony  was  about  75,000.  Rhode 
Island,  on  account  of  her  just  and  benevolent  treatment  of 
the  Indians,  was  seldom  molested  by  their  depredations. 


NORTH  CAROLINA. 


1.  Sir  Robert  Heath,  in  1630,  obtained  a  grant  of  a  large 
extent  of  territory,  reaching  from  Virginia  to  Florida,  which 
was  called  Carohna.  Under  this  grant  no  colony  was 
planted.  About  the  year  1645,  a  number  of  persons  fled 
from  persecution  in  Virginia,  and  settled  north  of  Albemarle 
sound.  Here,  for  many  years,  they  lived  in  the  enjoyment 
of  freedom  and  plenty. 

2.  In  1661,  another  settlement  was  made  near  Cape  Fear 
river  by  a  band  of  emigrants  from  Massachusetts.  In  con- 
sequence of  the  hostility  of  the  Indians  and  the  unproduct- 
iveness of  the  soil,  the  settlement  was  abandoned  in  1663. 

7.  When  and  by  whom  was  Brown  University  founded?  What  protected 
the  colony  from  Indian  depredations?  Suppose  all  the  white  people  that 
came  to  America  had  been  kind  and  honest  in  their  dealings  with  the  Indians, 
what  do  you  think  would  have  been  the  result  ?  If  we  should  in  all  cases  "  do 
to  others  as  we  wish  others  to  do  to  us,"  what  do  you  imagine  would  be  the 
consequence  ? 

1.  To  whom  was  Carolina  first  granted?  When  and  where  was  a  settle- 
ment first  made  in  Carolina  1 

2.  When  and  where  was  another  settlement  made  ?  Why  was  that  settle- 
ment abandoned  ?  When  did  emigrants  arrive  from  Barbadoes?  Where  did 
they  settle  ?     Who  was  appointed  governor? 


1671.  SETTLEMENT    OF    NORTH    CAROLINA.  93 

In  1665,  a  number  of  emigrants,  planters,  from  the  island 
of  Barbadoes,  settled  near  the  same  place,  over  whom  Sir 
John  Yeamans  was  appointed  governor. 

3.  As  yet,  Sir  Robert  Heath  had  not  complied  with  the 
conditions  of  his  title,  and,  in  1663,  the  same  territory  was 
granted  to  Lord  Clarendon  and  seven  others.*  They  now 
organized  a  government  on  the  most  liberal  principles,  and 
held  out  many  inducements  to  emigration.  Mr.  Drummond 
was  appointed  governor  of  the  settlement  on  the  Albemarle. 

4.  At  this  time  the  celebrated  John  Locke  *had  gained 
great  reputation  in  England  for  his  political  writings.  At 
the  request  of  Lord  Clarendon,  he  prepared  a  constitution  of 
government  for  the  province.  It  was  very  different  from 
the  constitutions  of  the  other  colonies.  It  provided  that  the 
governor  should  hold  his  office  during  life,  and  that  an  he- 
reditary nobility  should  be  created.  This  constitution  was 
adopted,  but  was  not  pleasing  to  the  people,  and  was  the 
occasion  of  much  disorder  in  the  colony. 

5.  In  1671,  William  Sayle  commenced  a  settlement, 
which,  in  honor  of  King  Charles,  he  called  Charleston. 
This  town,  being  well  situated  for  commerce,  rapidly  in- 
creased in  population.  Many  came  from  Clarendon  county, 
which  embraced  the  settlements  about  Cape  Fear.  After 
the  death  of  Sajde,  in  1671,  Sir  John  Yeamans  was  ap- 
pointed governor  of  Charleston.  The  settlements  under  this 
government  were  now  called  South  Carohna,  in  distinction 
from  those  at  Albemarle,  which  were  called  North  Carolina. 

6.  At  length  disorders  began  to  arise  in  the  northern  col- 
ony. These  were  greatly  increased  under  the  administra- 
tion of  Seth  Sothel,  one  of  the  proprietors,  who  was    ap- 

3.  What  had  Sir  Robert  Heath  failed  to  do?  What  was  the  consequence? 
What  did  they  do?     Who  was  appointed  governor? 

4.  What  did  John  Locke  do?  What  did  it  provide?  Were  the  people 
pleased  with  it? 

5.  When  did  William  Sayle  commence  a  settlement  ?  Why  did  he  name 
it  Charleston  ?  Who  was  appointed  governor  after  Sayle  ?  After  Yeamans 
was  appointed  governor,  what  were  these  settlements  called  ? 

6.  How  did  the  people  like  Seth  Sothel  for  governor?  What  did  they  do 
with  him  ?     Was  that  right?     What  took  place  in  1693  ? 

•  This  patent  comprised  the  territory  between  30°  and  36°  north  latitude,  extend- 
ing from  the  Atlantic  to  the  Pacific  Ocean, 


94 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


mo. 


pointed  governor  in  1683.  He  was  avaricious,  corrupt,  and 
tyrannical.  The  people,  after  enduring-  for  six  years  his 
cmel  oppression,  banished  him  from  the  colony.  Philip  Lud- 
well,  his  successor,  and  John  Archdale,  who  succeeded  him, 
were  both  popular  governors.  Under  their  administrations 
the  people  were  prosperous  and  happy. 


INDIAN      MASSACK 


7.  In  1707,  a  company  of  French  Protestants  arrived  and 
located  themselves  on  the  river  Trent,  a  branch  of  the  Neuse. 
In  1710,  one  hundred  German  famihes  from  the  Rhine, 
seeking  a  refuge  from  religious  persecution  at  home,  came 
and  settled  in  the  same  part  of  the  province.  To  each  of 
these,  the  governor  and  proprietors  gave  100  acres  of  land. 
In  the  enjoj^ment  of  liberty  of  conscience,  and  in  prospect 
of  ease  and  competence,  a  terrible  calamity  fell  upon  them. 
The  Tuscarora  and  Coree  Indians,  who  dwelt  in  the  interior, 
had  watched  with  jealousy  and  alarm  the  increasing  power 
of  the  whites,  and  fearful  of  a  total  extinction  from  the  en- 
croachment of  these  strangers,  in  1712,  secretly  formed  a 
conspiracy  to   massacre  the   whole   colony.      One   night, 


7.  Who  arrived  in  1707?    In  1710?    What  war  in  1712' 
principal  events  that  took  place  during  this  war  ? 


What  were  the 


1670.  SETTLEMENT    OF    SOUTH    CAROLINA.  95 

1,200  savage  warriors,  having  concerted  a  plan,  entered  the 
houses  of  the  inhabitants,  and  murdered  men,  women,  and 
children,  without  mercy.  They  flew  from  village  to  village, 
leaving  nothing  behind  them  but  a  horrid  scene  of  common 
slaughter.     A  few  only  escaped. 

8.  Not  long  after  that  fatal  night,  Colonel  Barnwell,  with 
about  1,000  men,  arrived  from  South  Carohna.  After  a 
fatiguing  march  he  met  and  defeated  the  Indians,  and  restored 
peace.  He  then  returned.  But  hostilities  were  soon  renewed 
by  the  Indians.  Colonel  Moore  was  immediately  sent  with 
a  strong  force  from  the  southern  colony.  He  defeated  the 
enemy,  and  took  800  prisoners.  The  next  year  the  Tus- 
caroras  abandoned  their  country  and  joined  the  confederacy 
of  the  five  nations  in  New  York. 

9.  The  two  Carohnas  were  still  united  under  the  same 
board  of  proprietors.  Troubles  and  disputes  often  arose  be- 
tween the  rulers  and  the  people.  In  1729,  the  Court  of  Eng- 
land declared  the  old  charter  forfeited ;  and  the  king  imme- 
diately separated  the  two  colonies  and  established  a  distinct 
government  over  each.  The  people  of  North  Carolina,  find- 
ing the  soil  in  the  interior  much  better  than  that  near  the 
coast,  began  to  penetrate  the  wilderness.  Peace  with  the 
Indians  being  secured,  many  came  from  the  northern  prov- 
inces ;  and  the  colony,  under  wise  governors,  enjoyed  a  high 
degree  of  prosperity. 


SOUTH  CAROLINA. 


1.  The  first  settlement  in  South  Carolina  was  made  at 
Port  Royal,  in  1670,  by  Wilham  Sayle.  The  next  year  he 
commenced  the  settlement  of  old  Charleston.  This  place 
increased  rapidly,  and  was  for  many  years  the  seat  of  gov- 


8.  What  became  of  the  Tuscaroras  ?     Would  it  have  been  belter  for  the  In- 
dians to  have  remained  at  peace  with  the  whites  ? 

9.  When  was  Carolina  divided  into  two  distinct  and  separate  governments  ? 
1.  2.  WMicn  and  where  was  the  first  settlement  made  within  the  limits  of 

South  Carolina  ?     What  took  place  in  1 680  ?     In  1690  ? 


96  HISTORY    OF   THE    t'NITED    STATES.  IYO6, 

emment.  But  in  1680,  the  people  considering  Oyster  Point, 
between  Ashley  and  Cooper  rivers,  a  more  suitable  place  for 
a  city,  removed  there,  and  laid  the  foundation  of  the  present 
city  of  Charleston.  The  first  settlers  suffered  extremely 
from  the  climate,  and  from  the  hostility  of  the  natives. 

2.  In  1690,  Seth  Sothel,  who  had  been  banished  from 
North  Carolina,  was  by  the  favor  of  a  party  made  governor. 
But  on  account  of  his  oppression,  he  was  afterward  re- 
moved from  office.  The  English  Episcopalians,  being  very 
numerous,  manifested  a  spmt  of  detemiined  opposition 
against  the  French  Protestants.  They  were  not  willing  to 
admit  their  representatives  into  the  general  assembly.  The 
French  were  mild  and  peaceable.  The  governor  favored 
their  cause,  and  endeavored  to  appease  the  feelings  of  their 
unchristian  opposers. 

3.  In  1695,  John  Archdale  was  appointed  governor  of 
both  Carolinas.  Order  was  now  restored,  and  the  French 
soon  enjoyed  all  the  rights  of  freemen.  But  not  long  after 
this.  Lord  Granville,  one  of  the  proprietors,  and  .Tames  Moore, 
the  governor,  determined  to  establish  the  Episcopal  religion 
by  law.  An  act  was  passed  for  this  purpose,  depriving  dis- 
senters of  all  participation  in  the  government.  This  meas- 
ure was  laid  before  the  proprietors  in  England,  and  finally 
sanctioned  by  them.  But  the  dissenters  made  complaint  to 
the  house  of  lords,  and  soon  after,  the  obnoxious  law  was 
declared  void. 

4.  During  the  war  between  England  and  Spain,  governor 
Moore,  in  170"2,  made  an  unsuccessful  expedition  against  the 
Spanish  settlement  at  St.  Augustine  in  Florida,  which  cost 
the  colony  8'26.000.  Soon  after  his  return,  he  marched 
against  the  Apalachian  Indians,  who  were  in  alliance  with 
the  Spaniards.  Here  he  was  more  successful.  He  burned 
their  towns,  took  many  prisoners,  and  enriched  himself 
by  seUing  them  as  slaves.  In  1706,  a  Spanish  fleet  ap- 
peared off"  Charleston  harbor.     But  finding  the  whole  force 

3.  What  took  place  in  1695?  What  unjust  and  oppressive  laws  were 
passed ' 

4.  What  expeditions  -were  undertaken  by  Gov.  Moore  '  What  took  place 
in  1706 .' 


1715. 


SETTLEMENT    OF    SOUTH   CAROLINA. 


97 


of  the  colony  prepared  to  oppose  them,  they  retired  without 
a  general  attack.  One  of  their  ships,  however,  was  taken 
by  the  colonists. 

5.  A  general  war  with  the  Indians,  headed  by  the  Ya- 
massees,*  who  had  conspired  to  extii"pate  the  whites,  com- 
menced in  1715.  It  began  by  a  general  massacre  of  the 
colonists  around  Port  Royal.  A  band  of  seventy  whites 
and  forty  negroes,  after  a  short  contest,  surrendered,  and  were 
all  immediately  cut  to  pieces.  Governor  Craven,  with  a 
force  of  1,200  men,  at  a  place  called  Saltcatchers,  fought  a 
bloodj^  battle  with  the  enemy.  The  savages  were  defeated 
with  great  slaughter.  The  survivors  fled  to  Florida,  and 
were  kmdly  welcomed  b}^  the  Spaniards.  About  400  whites 
were  killed  in  the  war,  and  a  great  deal  of  property  de- 
stroyed. 

6.  Besides  the  calamities  of  war,  the  colonists  groaned 
under  the  cruel  measures  of  the  proprietors,  and  their  oppres- 

5.  What  took  place  in  1715  '    What  did  Gov.  Craven  do  ? 

6.  In  1719? 

*  The  Yamassees  were  a  brave  and  warlike  tribe  of  Indians.  They  had  long  medi- 
tated the  total  destruction  of  the  whites.  They  had  engaged  in  the  conspiracy  all 
the  Indian  tribes  from  Cape  Fear  to  the  Alabama  river. 

9 


98  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1738. 

sive  officers.  The  people  at  length  became  exasperatedj  and 
determined  to  throw  off  their  yoke.  In  17195  a  general  union 
was  formed,  and  after  several  unsuccessful  attempts  to  pro- 
duce a  change  in  their  favor,  the  people  met  and  appointed 
James  Moore  their  governor.  He  immediately  assumed  su- 
preme authority,  and  controlled  the  affairs  of  the  colony  with 
spirit  and  decision, 

7.  The  contest  was  finally  settled  by  the  king,  in  1729, 
who  established  over  each  of  the  Carolihas  a  regular  colo- 
nial government.  Under  the  blessing  of  a  good  government 
the  colony  rapidly  increased  in  wealth  and  population.  Its 
peace  was  again  disturbed  in  1738,  by  an  insurrection  of  the 
slaves.  At  Stono  they  killed  the  keepers  of  a  warehouse, 
and  supplied  themselves  with  guns  and  ammunition.  They 
then  marched  forward  with  their  colors  flying,  killed  the 
whites,  burned  their  houses,  and  compelled  the  blacks  to  join 
them. 

8.  The  alarm  soon  reached  Wiltown,  where  a  large  con- 
gregation were  assembled  for  divine  worship.  Having  their 
arms  with  them,  they  immediately  marched  against  the 
negroes.  They  soon  found  them  in  an  open  field,  dancing 
and  rejoicing  at  their  success.  They  fell  upon  them,- killed 
some,  and  put  the  rest  to  flight.  The  leaders  were  taken 
and  put  to  death.  The  colony  afterward  suffered  from  the 
Indians;  yet  the  population  continually  increased.  Hun- 
dreds and  thousands  came  from  Europe  and  the  northern 
colonies.  \ 


PENNSYLVANIA. 


1.  WiUiam   Penn*  was   the   founder   of  Pennsylvania. 
His  father  was  an  admiral  in  the  Enghsh  navy,  and  after 

7.  What  took  place  in  1738  ?  Describe  the  insurrection  and  conduct  of  the 
slaves. 

8.  What  was  the  result  of  this  insurrection  ?  Can  you  tell  me  how  South 
Carolina  is  bounded  ?     Its  capital  ? 

*  William  Penn  was  born  in  London,  in  1644.  He  was  the  only  son  of  William 
Penn,  who  was  vice-admiral  of  England  in  the  time  of  Oliver  Cromwell,  and  after- 
ward knighted  by  Charles  II.  for  his  successful  services  against  the  Dutch.  At  the 
age  of  fifteen,  he  entered  Christ  church  college,  Oxford.      He  appears  to  have 


1681.  SETTLEMENT    OF   PENNSYLVANIA.  99 

his  death,  in  reward  of  his  services,  King  Charles  granted  to 
his  son  William  a  large  extent  of  territory  west  of  New 
Jersey,  and  gave  it  the  name  of  Pennsylvania,  which  means 
"  The  groves  of  Penn." 

2.  Penn  having  become  well  acquainted  with  the  soil  of 
that  region,  now  published  a  description  of  Pennsylvania, 
and  offered  to  sell  or  rent  lands  so  cheap,  that  many  were 
induced  to  emigrate.  In  the  autumn  of  1681,  a  large  com- 
pany, mostly  Q^uakers,  left  England  for  Pennsylvania, 
among  whom  was  William  Markham,  who  was  to  act  as 
deputy-governor.  Penn  also  purchased  of  the  Duke  of  York, 
the  "  Territories"  of  Delaware.  The  next  summer,  with 
about  2,000  colonists,  he  embarked  for  America. 

3.  He  first  landed  at  New  Castle,  and  the  day  following, 
possession  of  the  "  Territories"  was  legally  given  him  by  the 

1.  Who  was  the  founder  of  Pennsylvania?  What  can  you  tell  me  about 
William  Penn  ?     What  is  the  meaning  of  the  word  Pennsylvania  ? 

2.  When  did  the  first  settlers  sail  for  Pennsylvania  ?  When  did  Penn  sail  ? 
How  many  colonists  with  him  ? 

3.  Where  did  he  first  land  ? 

• 

been  seriously  inclined  from  his  youth  ;  and  having  heard  Thomas  Loe,  an  eminent 

!)reacher  among  the  Quakers,  or  Friends,  he  was  deeply  impressed,  and  with  a  num- 
)er  of  other  students,  withdrew  from  the  establislied  worship,  and  held  meetings  by 
themselves.  This  gave  great  offense  to  the  heads  of  the  college,  by  whom  they  were 
fined  for  nonconformity  ;  but  persisting  in  their  religious  exercises,  they  were 
finally  expelled  the  university.  On  his  return  home,  his  father  tried  in  vain  to  di- 
vert him  from  his  religious  pursuits  ;  and  at  length,  finding  him  inflexible  in  what 
he  now  conceived  to  be  his  religious  duty,  beat  him  severely,  and  turned  him  out  of 
doors.  Relenting,  however,  he  sent  him  to  Pari%  with  some  persons  of  quality,  hop- 
ing by  this  means  to  draw  his  mind  from  the  subject  of  religion.  In  two  years,  he 
returned  so  well  skilled  in  the  French  language,  and  other  polite  accomplishments, 
that  he  was  again  joyfully  received  at  home.  lie  commenced  the  study  of  the  law 
at  Lincoln's  Inn.  Here  he  continued  till  his  22d  year,  when  his  father  committed 
to  him  the  management  of  a  large  estate  in  Ireland.  At  Cork,  he  heard  the  famous 
Thomas  Loe  again  preach.  He  began  his  discourse  with  these  penetrating  words, 
"  There  is  a  faith  that  overcomes  the  world,  and  there  is  a  faith  that  is  overcome  by 
the  world."  Penn  was  so  deeply  afifected  that  he  now  resolved  to  devote  himself  to 
a  rehgious  life.  Soon  after  this  he  commenced  preaching,  and  from  this  time,  his 
life  was  nearly  one  scene  of  persecution.  He  was  often  imprisoned  and  fined,  but 
he  was  never  deterred  from  doing  what  he  conceived  to  be  his  religious  duty.  Some 
debts  being  due  to  his  father  at  the  time  of  his  death,  from  the  king,  and  as  there  was 
no  prospect  of  payment  very  soon  in  any  other  mode,  Penn  solicited  a  grant  of  lands 
in  America;  and,  in  1681,  obtained  of  Charles  II.  a  charter  of  Pennsylvania.  In  1682, 
he  arrived  in  the  province,  and  established  a  government,  allowing  perfect  liberty 
of  conscience.  In  1684,  he  retui-ned  to  England,  but  revisited  Pennsylvania  again  in 
1699.  He  returned  to  England  in  1701,  where  he  died  in  1718,  aged  73.  The  writ- 
ings of  Penn  bespeak  his  character  as  a  Christian  and  philcnithrujnst.  He  was  a 
man  of  great  abilities,  of  quick  thought  and  ready  utterance,  of  mildness  of  disposi- 
tion, and  extensive  charity.  Of  his  ability  as  a  pohtician  and  legislator,  the  pros- 
perity of  Pennsylvania  is  a  lasting  monument. 


100 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1681. 


magistrates.  He  then  made  a  speech  to  the  people,  and  ex- 
ph\ined  to  them  the  principles  of  the  government.  The 
Dutch,  Swedes,  and  Finns,  who  had  settled  in  Delaware, 
cheertully  submitted  to  his  authorit3^  Before  leaving  Eng- 
h\nd,  Penn  had  published  a  ''  Frame  of  government,  and  a 
bod}'  of  Laws,"  b}'  which  he  intended  to  regulate  the  colony. 
His  hberal  policy  induced  great  numbers  to  emigrate. 


P  K  N  N     S     T  R  K  A  T  V     \V  I  T  U      1"  U  K     INDIANS. 


4.  The  first  assembly  met  at  Chester,  soon  after  his  arri- 
val, and  adopted  his  constitution  and  laws.  Penn  endeav- 
ored to  secure  the  good  will  of  the  Indians.  He  made  a 
treat}^  with  them,  and  considering  them  the  rightful  owners 
of  the  soil,  purchased  of  them  all  the  lands  which  had  been 
secured  to  him  by  the  charter  from  the  king.  He  selected 
a  spot  for  a  large  city,  which  he  called  Philadelphia,  a  word 

4.  When  did  the  first  assemblj-  of  the  wople  meet  ?  Ans.  The  -tth  of  De- 
cember. 1682.  Whert^  ?  Did  he  drive  the  Indians  oti'.  and  take  their  lands  ? 
What  did  he  do  as  regards  the  Indians  ?  What  was  the  consequence  o(  this 
treaty  ?  Att£.  The  colony  enjoyed  the  blessings  of  ^^eace  and  friendship  with 
the  Indians  70  years.  To  w  hat  sect  of  Christians  did  Penn  belong,  and  most 
ot  those  who  first  settled  in  that  colony  ?  Can  \ou  mention  any  distinguishing 
peculiaritiy  of  the  Quakers  ?  Aris.  Never  to  make  w  ar.  or  to  perform  any 
act  of  violence,  even  in  self-defense.    "N^Tiat  citv  did  he  immediately  found  I 


1701.  SETTLEMENT    OF   PEN>*SYLVANIA.  101 

signifying-  brofherl//  lore.     Here  eighty  houses  were  built 
before  the  end  of  the  year. 

5.  In  1GS3,  a  second  assembly  was  called  at  Philadel- 
phia. Penn  now  granted  a  new  charter,  similar  in  spirit  to 
the  first.  Many  wise  and  pacific  regulations  were  adopted. 
Penn  was  intent  upon  securing  the  good  order  and  prosperity 
of  all  the  people.  In  1684,  he  returned  to  England.  At 
this  time  the  province  was  very  prosperous.  Twenty  settle- 
ments had  already  been  commenced,  and  the  city  of  Phila- 
delphia contained  :2.000  inhabitants. 

6.  Penn  was  a  firm  friend  of  James  II.  ''As  he  has," 
said  he,  "  been  my  friend,  and  my  father's  friend,  I  feel 
bound  in  justice  to  be  a  friend  to  him."  On  account  of  his 
known  attachment  to  James,  he  was  accused  of  hostility  to 
King  William,  and  was  several  times  imprisoned.  The 
government  of  his  province  was  taken  out  of  his  hands,  and 
conferred  upon  Col.  Fletcher,  the  governor  of  New  York. 
But  he  soon  proved  his  conduct  to  be  just  and  honorable, 
and  his  rights  were  again  restored.  He  now  commissioned 
William  Markham  as  his  deputy-governor. 

7.  Penn  visited  his  province  again  in  1699.  Finding 
some  ground  of  complaint  among  the  people,  in  1701,  he 
granted  them  a  new  charter.  He  also  permitted  the  Terri- 
tories of  Delaware  to  have  a  distinct  assemblj-,  yet  subject 
to  the  governor  of  Pennsylvania.  Soon  after  this,  Penn 
returned  to  England  again,  and  left  the  government  of  his 
province  in  the  hands  of  his  deputj'-governor. 

8.  Frequent  complaints  were  still  made,  which  for  many 
years  marred  the  happiness  of  the  people.  The  colony, 
however,  continued  to  increase  in  wealth  and  population, 
beyond  any  previous  example.     By  their  just  and  upright 

5.  When  and  where  was  a  second  assembly  called  ?  When  did  Penn 
return  to  England  ? 

6.  To  w  hat  king  was  Peiui  friendly  ?  Why  was  Penn  imprisoned  by  King 
William  ?     Whom  did  he  appoint  as  his  deputy-governor  ? 

7.  When  did  Penn  visit  Pennsylvania  for  the  last  time  ?  Wliat  did  he  do 
in  1701  ?     What  did  he  permit  to  the  Territories  of  Delaware  ? 

8.  How  happened  it  that  the  colony  of  Pennsylvania  lived  in  peace  and 
friendship  with  the  Indians,  while  other  colonies  suffered  so  much  from  their 
depredations  I  Can  you  tell  me  how  Pennsylvania  is  bounded  ?  Its 
capital  ? 


102  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*738. 

conduct,  the  whites  secured  the  friendship  of  the  Indians, 
which  was  not  interrupted  for  more  than  70  years. 


GEORGIA. 

1.  In  1732,  George  II.*  granted  the  territory  now  consti- 
tuting the  state  of  Georgia  to  a  company  of  benevolent 
gentlemen,  who  desired  to  provide  an  asylum  for  the  poor  of 
England,  and  for  the  persecuted  Protestants  of  all  nations. 
The  atfairs  of  the  colony  w^ere  committed  to  a  board  of 
twenty-one  trustees,  who  made  many  wise  and  useful  regu- 
lations. 

2.  In  November  of  the  same  year,  James  Oglethorpe,  a 
member  of  the  British  parliament,  a  brave  and  humane  man, 
sailed  from  England  with  113  emigrants,  and  arrived  at 
Charleston  in  January.  After  receiving  a  good  supply  of 
provisions,  he  proceeded  to  Georgia,  and  on  the  12th  of 
February,  1733,  commenced  a  settlement  on  Yarnacraw 
bluff,  and  named  it  Savannah,  after  the  Indian  name  of  the 
river.  The  next  j^ear  a  large  company  of  poor  persons  ar- 
rived and  commenced  clearing  up  the  wilderness.  But  the 
trustees  finding  many  of  these  emigrants  idle  and  inefficient, 
made  liberal  offers  to  any  who  would  settle  in  the  colony. 
This  induced  hundreds  from  Scotland,  Germany,  and  Swit- 
zerland, to  emigrate. 

3.  In   1738,  George  Whitefield,t    the    most    celebrated 

1.  When,  by  whom,  and  to  whom,  was  the  territory  of  Georgia  granted? 
For  what  purpose  ?     To  whom  were  its  affairs  committed  ? 

2.  When,  where,  and  by  whom,  was  the  first  settlement  made  ? 

3.  Who  visited  the  colony  in  1638  ?     Who  was  Whitetield  ? 

*  George  II.  ol'Ensrland  was  born  in  UVSS.  He  succeeded  his  father,  George  I.,  in 
1727.  He  died  in  1760.  He  was  a  prince  of  very  moderate  abilities,  parsimonious, 
and  wholly  regardless  of  science  or  literature ;  hasty  and  obstinate ;  but  honest 
and  open  in  his  disposition. 

t  George  Whitetield  was  born  in  Gloucester.  England,  in  1714.  At  the  age  of  18 
he  entered  one  of  the  colleges  at  Oxford,  where  he  became  acquainted  with  John 
and  Charles  Wesley,  whose  piety  was  ai-dent  and  singular,  like  his  own.  From 
the  strict  rules  and  methods  of  lile  which  these  young  men  followed,  they  were 
called  METHODISTS,  and  they  were  the  founders  of  the  sect  thus  denominated. 
Whitetield  took  orders,  being  ordained  by  the  bishop.  June  2(i,  1736.  Such  was  his 
(Strain  of  preaching,  that  at  his  tirst  sermon  at  Gloucester,  a  complaint  was  made  to 
the  bishop  tiut  he  had  driven  fifteen  people  mad  ;  on  which  the  prelate  observed, 


1742.  SETTLEMENT    OF    GEORGIA.  103 

preacher  of  modern  times,  visited  the  colony.  His  benevo- 
lence and  piety  had  led  him  to  explore  the  habitations  of  the 
poor  in  England,  where  he  found  hundreds  of  helpless  orphan 
children.  His  object  now  was  to  establish  an  orphan  asylum 
in  Georgia,  where  they  might  be  trained  up  in  the  paths  of 
virtue  and  religion. 

4.  In  1740,  about  2,500  emigrants  had  settled  in  the 
colony.  More  than  1,500  of  these  were  from  among  the 
poor  of  Europe,  or  persecuted  Protestants.  For  their  support 
the  trustees  had  expended  nearly  $500,000.  The  restric- 
tions under  which  the  first  settlers  labored,  made  it  extreme- 
ly difficult  for  them  to  obtain  a  comfortable  subsistence. 
The  government  was  a  sort  of  military  establishment,  with 
general  Oglethorpe  at  its  head. 

5.  At  this  time  the  Spaniards  had  possession  of  Florida. 
Oglethorpe,  fearing  that  they  would  combine  with  the  In- 
dians and  invade  Georgia,  undertook  an  expedition  against 
St.  Augustine  i^pMay,  1740.  This  expedition  proving  un- 
successful, Oglethorpe  with  sorrow  and  regret  returned  to 
Georgia.  In  1742,  the  Spaniards,  in  retaliation,  resolved  on 
invading  Georgia. 

6.  Oglethorpe,  having  been  informed  of  the  proposed 
invasion,  made   preparation   for    a  vigorous    defense.     He 

4.  What  was  the  government  of  Georgia  at  first  ? 

5.  Why  did  Oglethorpe  undertake  an  expedition  against  St.  Augustine  in 
Florida  ?     Was  it  successful .'     What  did  the  Spaniards  do  ? 

6.  What  did  Oglethorpe  then  do  ?     Where  did  he  collect  his  forces  1 

that  he  hoped  the  madness  would  not  be  forgotten  before  the  next  Sunday.  He 
visited  this  country  seven  times,  and  was  instrumental  in  imparting  the  pure  prin- 
ciples aud  elevated  hopes  of  religion  to  thousands  both  in  Great  Britain  and 
America.  No  preacher  ever  had  such  astonishing  power  over  his  auditory,  or  was 
attended  by  such  multitudes  as  he  sometimes  addressed  in  the  fields.  He  was  of  a 
very  liberal  spirit,  and  had  little  attachment  to  forms.  He  embraced  all  who  loved 
the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sincerity.  The  following  anecdote  respecting  his  manner 
of  preaching  will  serve  to  illustrate  this  part  of  his  character.  One  day  while 
preaching  from  the  balcony  of  the  court-house  in  Philadelphia,  he  cried  out — 
"  Fatlier  Abraham,  who  have  you  got  in  heaven — any  Episcopalians  V  "  No  !" 
"Any  Baptists?"  "No!"  "Any  Presbyterians?"  "No!"  "Have  you  any 
Methodists  there  V  "No!"  "Have  you  any  Independents,  or  Seceders  ihexeV 
"  No  !  No  !"  "  Why,  then,  who  have  you  there  ?"  "  We  don't  know  those  names 
here.  All  that  are  here  are  CAn>/iaMS— believers  in  Christ — men  who  have  over- 
come by  the  blood  of  the  Lamb  and  the  word  of  his  testimony  !"  "  O,  is  this  the 
case  ?  Then  God  help  me.  God  help  us  ah  to  forget  party  names,  and  to  become 
Christians  in  deed  and  in  truth."  He  died  at  Newburyport,  Mass.,  1770,  having 
been  in  the  ministry  34  years. 


104 


SETTLEMENT    OF    GEORGIA. 


1749. 


applied  to  South  Carolina  for  assistance.  But  alarmed  at 
their  own  danger,  the  people  of  that  colony  prepared  only 
for  their  own  defense.  The  general,  hoping  to  be  able  to 
resist  the  enemy  till  aid  should  arrive,  collected  all  his 
forces  at  Frederica,*  and  waited  the  attack.  Soon  a  Span- 
ish fleet  of  36  sail  arrived,  and  landed  more  than  3,000  men 
on  St.  Simon's  island. 

7.  Oglethorpe,  learning  that  the  Spanish  army  was  sepa- 
rated into  two  divisions,  determined  to  attack  one  of  them 
by  surprise.  He  advanced  his  troops  in  the  night  within 
two  miles  of  one  division :  then  selecting  a  small  band,  he 
advanced  nearer,  and  while  observing  the  situation  of  the 
enemy,  a  French  soldier  in  his  ser\nce  fired  his  musket,  and 
deserted  to  the  Spanish  camp. 


8.  The  general,  fearing  that  this  deserter  would  make 
known  to  the  enemy  his  bad  situation,  devised  a  veiy  happy 

7.  What  occurred  as  he  was  examining  the  situation  of  the  enemy  ? 

8.  What  expedient  did  he  devise  to  save  his  little  army  ? 

*  Frederica  is  situated  on  the  west  side  of  St.  Simon's  island,  near  the  mouth  of 
the  Altamaha  river. 


1752.  .       SETTLEMENT    OF    GEORGIA.  105 

expedient,  by  which  his  httle  army  escaped.  He  wrote  a 
letter  to  this  French  soldier,  instructing  him  to  make  known 
to  the  Spaniards  the  weakness  of  the  Enghsh  forces,  and 
urge  them  to  attack  Frederica ;  or,  if  he  should  not  succeed 
in  this,  that  he  should  persuade  them,  if  possible,  to  remain 
on  the  island,  until  the  expected  reinforcement  should  arrive 
from  South  Carolina.  He  also  cautioned  him  not  to  drop  a 
word  respecting-  the  attack  which  a  British  fleet  was  pre- 
paring to  make  upon  St.  Augustine.  He  concluded  by 
promising  him  a  large  reward  for  his  services. 

9.  The  letter  was  sent  by  a  Spanish  prisoner,  who  prom- 
ised to  give  it  to  the  deserter.  But  instead  of  this  he  carried 
it  directly  to  the  Spanish  general,  which  was  just  what 
Oglethorpe  desired.  The  deserter  was  now  supposed  to  be 
a  spy,  and  was  immediately  put  in  irons.  Soon  after,  three 
vessels  of  war  appeared  off  the  coast.  The  Spanish  general 
supposing  this  to  be  the  reinforcement  spoken  of  in  the  let- 
ter, determined  to  attack  the  English  without  delay, 

10.  Oglethorpe,  anticipating  his  designs,  placed  a  party 
of  his  men  in  ambuscade,  and  falling  suddenly  upon  the 
Spaniards,  as  they  were  advancing,  killed  many,  threw  the 
remainder  into  great  disorder,  and  compelled  them  to  retreat 
with  a  loss  of  about  200  men.  Thus  defeated,  and  fearing 
the  approach  of  the  reinforcement,  the  enemy  embarked  in 
haste,  leaving  a  quantity  of  ammunition  and  guns  behind 
them,  and  left  the  coast  as  soon  as  possible.  By  these 
successful  maneuvers  General  Oglethorpe  saved  his  own, 
and  perhaps  all  the  neighboring  colonies. 

11.  The  prosperity  of  the  colony  was  not,  however,  es- 
tablished till  1752,  when  the  trustees,  ^jsappointed  in  their 
expectations,  gave  up  their  charter.  The  king  soon  after 
established  a  government  over  Georgia,  similar  to  those  in 
the  other  colonies.  The  colony  now  began  to  flourish. 
Rice  and  indigo  were  cultivated,  and  soon  became  a  source 

9.  What  was  done  with  this  letter  ?     What  effect  had  it  on  the  Spanish 
general  ?     What  did  the  Spanish  general  do  ? 

10.  What  was  the  result?     Which  do  you  think,  was  the  best  general,  the 
English  or  the  Spanish  ? 

11.  What  took  place  in  1752?    After  this  time  ?    How  is  Georgia  bounded  ? 
Its  capital  ? 


106  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1Y53, 

of  wealth  to  the  planters.  Peace  was  occasionally  inter- 
mpted  by  the  Indians  of  Florida,  but  no  general  war  oc- 
ciuTed  for  many  yeai's. 


w 


THE  FRENCH  AND  INDIAN  WAR. 

1.  The  value  of  the  western  territories,  or  the  great  valley 
of  the  Mississippi,  was  well  known  to  both  France  and 
England,  and  for  many  years  was  the  cause  of  violent  con- 
tentions between  them.  The  French  had  settled  in  Canada, 
on  the  north  of  the  English  colonies,  and  in  Louisiana,  on 
the  south.  They  had  also  explored  the  country*  along  the 
great  lakes,  the  rivers  Ohio  and  iVIississippi,  and  had  settle- 
ments at  Detroit,  ISIackinaw,  Green  Bay,  Vincennes,  Kas- 
kaskia,  St.  Genevieve,  Arkansas,  New  Orleans,  &c.  ;  conse- 
quentlv,  thej'  founded  their  claim  upon  the  actual  explora- 
tion and  occupation  of  the  countrv.  For  the  purpose  of 
protecting  their  rights  and  vindicating  their  claims,  they  de- 
termined to  connect  their  northern  and  southern  possessions 
by  a  line  of  posts,  and  in  1753  they  commenced  erecting  a 
chain  of  forts  from  Lake  Erie  to  the  gulf  of  Mexico.  They 
contended  that  the  English  had  no  claim  to  territory  west 
of  the  Alleghany  mountains. 

2.  The  English,  on  the  other  hand,  claimed  the  country 

1.  "WTio  laid  claim  to  the  western  territories,  or  to  the  country  west  of  the 
Alleghany  mountains  ?     To  which  do  you  think  it  belonged  I 

'  Josepli  3lai-quetto,  usually  called  Father  Marquette,  was  a  Fi-cnch  Jesuit  and 
missionary  amoiitr  the  Indians  of  Canada  and  ^richisnui.  Many  accounts  had  been 
given  by  the  Iniiians,  of  a  ^-eat  river  at  the  west,  wliich  llowed  southwardly,  and 
which  t'liey  calU-d  MississiiTj^i.  M.  de  Frontenac,  the  governor  of  Canada,  desirous 
of  ascertainini:  the  truth  of  this  report,  and  of  makhi?  such  other  discoveries  as 
opportunities  would  admit,  sent  Father  Mai-quette  and  M.  Joliet,  with  tive  other 
Ftenchmen.  on  an  expedition  for  that  purpose.  On  the  13th  of  May.  1673.  they  lell 
Green  Bay  in  two  birch- bark  canoes,  and  sjiileil  up  Fox  river.  On  the  10th  of 
June,  taking  their  two  canoes  on  their  shoulders,  they  crossed  the  narrow  portage 
that  divides  the  Fox  river  from  the  Wisconsin.  Embarking:  on  tlie  broad  Wiscon- 
sin, they  sailed  down  that  river,  and  in  seven  days  entered  the  .Mississippi — ••  the 
ocean-stream  of  the  West."  They  proceeded  as  I'ar  as  the  month  of  the  Arkansas 
river.  They  visited  the  v;u-ioiis  Indian  trilies  on  the  Kinks  o\  the  Mississippi,  and 
were  kindly  received  and  welcomed  by  all.  On  the  17th  of  July  they  started  on 
their  retm-h.  In  Katitude  3S-.  ttiey  entered  the  lUinois.  and  thus"  shorteiied  their 
route  to  Michipm.  In  September  they  arrived  at  Green  Bay,  having  been  absent 
four  months.  Marquette  remained  among  the  Miamis  until  h'ls  death,  in  1675.  M. 
-Johet  returned  to  Uuebec. 


1755.         ,  FRENCH  AND  INDIAN  WAR.  107 

Stretching  westward  as  far  as  the  Pacific  Ocean,  and  built 
some  forts  and  trading-  houses  on  Lake  Ontario  and  the 
Ohio  river,  for  the  purpose  of  carrying  on  the  fur  trade  with 
the  Indians.  The  French  formed  an  alhance  with  nume- 
rous tribes  of  Indians,  and  in  1753  prohibited  the  English 
traders  from  all  intercourse  with  them.  Some  of  these 
traders  were  seized  by  the  French,  and  carried  prisoners  to 
Canada.  In  consequence  of  this,  Dinwiddie,  governor  of 
Virginia,  determined  to  send  a  remonstrance  to  the  French 
governor.  For  this  purpose  he  commissioned  George  Wash- 
ington,* who  had  already  given  marks  of  future  greatness, 
and  who  now  cheerfully  undertook  this  difficult  enterprise. 
Though  not  yet  twenty-two  years  of  age,  he  traveled  400 
miles,  most  of  the  way  through  a  dreary  wilderness,  ex- 
posed to  the  savages,  and  delivered  the  message. 

3.  The  reply  of  the  French  commander  was  not  satisfac- 
tory, and  the  next  spring,  Washington,  at  the  head  of  400 
men.  marched  against  Fort  Du  Qucsne.f  built  near  the  place 
now  called  Pittsburgh,  On  his  way  he  surprised  and  took 
a  detachment  of  the  enemy.  Shortly  after,  he  erected  a 
fort  at  the  Great  Meadows,  and  was  there  besieged  by  a 
large  French  force.  After  a  brave  defense,  being  overpow- 
ered, he  surrendered,  and  marching  out  with  the  honors  of 
war,  returned  with  his  regiment  to  Virginia. 

4.  War  appearing  inevitable,  delegates  from  seven  of  the 

2.  Whom  did  Governor  Dinwiddie  send  with  a  message  to  the  French 
govern«>r  ?     How  far  did  Washii\gton  travel  ? 

3.  What  was  done  the  next  year?     State  the  result  of  this  expedition. 

4.  Delegates  from  how  many  states  met  at  Albany  ?  What  did  they  do  ? 
What  tribes  were  called  the  Six  Nations  ?  Ans.  The  Mohawks,  Oneidas, 
Senecas,  Onondagos,  Delawares,  and  Tuscaroras.  Why  was  their  plan  re- 
jected I 

*  George  Washington  was  born  February  22, 1732,  in  Westmoreland  county,  Vir- 
ginia. At  fifteen  he  obtained  a  midshipman's  warrant  in  the  navy  of  Great  Brit- 
ain; but,  in  compliance  with  the  wish  of  liis  mother,  he  immediately  resigned  it, 
and  prepared  himself  for  the  profession  of  a  surveyor  and  engineer.  He  was  with 
Braddock  at  his  defeat,  and  on  his  return  to  Mount  Vernon,  he  married,  and  took 
no  further  nart  in  public  affairs,  until  1774,  when  he  was  sent  from  Virginia  to  the 
Continental  Congress.  In  1775,  he  was  appointed  commander-in-chie^  of  the  na- 
tional forces,  and  he  acted  in  this  capacity  until  the  successful  close  of  the  war,  in 
December,  1782,  when  ho  resigned  nis  commission,  and  retired  to  private  life.  In 
1789,  he  was  unanimously  elected  first  president,  and  held  the  olfice  until  1797, 
when  he  once  more  retired  (o  Mount  Vernon,  where  he  died  in  1709.  Of  him  it  is 
truly  said,  "  his  history  is  that  of  his  country."    See  the  "  Life  of  Washington." 

t  DuKay. 


108  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*755. 

provinces  met  at  Albany,  and  formed  an  alliance  with  the 
confederated  Six  Nations  of  Indians.  At  this  meeting,  a 
plan  of  union  was  proposed  for  uniting  all  the  forces  of  the 
colonies.  This  plan  provided  for  a  general  council  of  dele- 
gates from  all  the  colonies,  and  for  a  governor-general,  ap- 
pointed by  the  king.  The  council  was  to  propose  measures, 
and  the  governor  was  to  accept  or  reject  them  as  he  chose. 
This  plan  was  rejected  by  the  British  government,  because 
it  gave  too  much  power  to  the  colonies  ;  and  by  the  colonies, 
because  it  gave  too  much  power  to  the  king. 

6.  Early  in  the  spring  of  1755,  Gen.  Winslow,  with  an 
army  of  3,000  men,  left  Massachusetts  on  an  expedition  to 
Nova  Scotia,  which  was  settled  by  the  French.  He  soon 
took  possession  of  the  whole  country,  and  fearing  that  the 
people  would  revolt  as  soon  as  he  left  the  territory,  he  de- 
termined to  break  up  their  settlements.  Accordingly  the 
miserable  inhabitants  were  torn  from  their  homes,  and 
transported  to  Boston,  and  afterward  scattered  among  the 
colonies. 

6.  England  had  now  determined  to  maintain  her  claims ; 
and  the  same  spring.  Gen.  Braddock  was  sent  from  Ireland, 
with  a  large  force  of  English  troops,  to  drive  the  French 
from  her  territories.  A  British  fleet  was  also  ordered  to 
prevent  the  French  from  entering  the  St.  Lawrence.  Brad- 
dock  arrived  in  Virginia  in  April,  and  in  connection  with  the 
governors  of  the  colonies,  determined  upon  three  expeditions; 
one  against  Du  Quesne,  another  against  forts  Niagara  and 
Frontenac,  and  a  third  against  Crown  Point. 

7.  Braddock  immediately  made  preparations  to  march 
against  Fort  Du  Q,uesne.  After  much  delay  in  procuring 
provisions,  he  set  out  with  1,200  men,  chosen  from  his  army. 
The  remainder,  under  Col.  Dunbar,  were  to  follow  as  soon 
as  possible,  with  the  stores.  Braddock,  as  a  British  soldier, 
had  acquired  a  good  degree  of  skill  in  the  science  of  war, 

5.  WhaUwas  done  in  1755?  What  do  you  think  of  Gen.  Winslow's  con- 
duct in  breaking  up  the  settlements  in  Nova  Scotia  ? 

6.  What  did  England  do?  When  did  Braddock  arrive  in  Virginia?  How 
many  expeditions  were  now  resolved  upon  ? 

-  7.  Against  what  place  did  Braddock  march  ?  Was  he  acquainted  with  the 
modes  of  Indian  warfare  ?    What  did  Washington  do  ? 


1755. 


FRENCH    AND    INDIAN   WAR. 


109 


as  carried  on  in  Europe,  but  knew  nothing  of  the  modes  of 
Indian  warfare.  Washington  explained  to  him  their  mode 
of  attack,  and  warned  him  against  proceeding  in  the  regu- 
lar order  of  march.  He  offered  to  go  before  the  army  with 
a  company  of  colonial  troops,  and  scour  the  woods,  to  guard 
against  falling  into  an  ambuscade. 

8.  But  the  general,  despising  both  the  enemy  and  the 
provincial  officers,  marched  on  in  regular  file.  When  he 
had  advanced  within  seven  miles  of  the  French  fort,  pass- 
ing through  a  thicket  of  wood  and  long-  grass,  a  sudden 
yell  and  destructive  fire  burst  upon  the  aniiy  from  every 
quarter.  The  French  and  Indians,  invisible  to  the  English, 
cut  down  their  ranks  with  dreadful  slaughter.     Braddock, 


DEATH     or     BRADDOCK. 


after  five  horses  had  been  shot  under  him,  received  a  fatal 
wound  ;  and  most  of  his  officers  fell  with  him. 

9.  Washington  and  his  troops  were  the  only  part  of  the 
army  that  effectually  resisted  the  enemy.  The  British 
troops  retreated  till  they  met  the  detachment  with  the  bag- 

8.  Did  Braddock  comply  with  the  advice  of  Washington  ?  How  did  he 
proceed?  State  what  happened.  Would  you  have  done  as  Braddock  did? 
Do  you  always  follow  the  advice  of  those  who  know  what  is  best  ? 

9.  What  did  Dunbar  do  ?    How  many  were  killed  in  "  Braddock's  defeat?' 

10 


110  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  I755i 

gage.  Terrified  at  the  fate  of  Braddock  and  his  officers: 
Col.  Dunbar,  on  whom  the  command  now  devolved,  marchei 
his  remaining  troops  to  Philadelphia,  leaving  the  frontie 
settlement  to  endure  all  the  horrors  of  savage  warfare.  Ii 
this  battle,  sixty-four  officers,  and  one  half  of  the  army,  we: 
either  killed  or  wounded. 

10.  The  expedition  against  Crown  Point  was  conducted 
by  Gen.  Johnson,  with  a  body  of  New  England  troops.  He 
marched,  in  the  month  of  August,  as  far  as  Lake  George. 
Hearing  that  an  army  had  arrived  in  Canada  from  France, 
and  was  marching  down  upon  him,  he  immediately  erected 
a  fortification,  and  sent  forward  1,000  men  to  meet  the  ene- 
my. The  French  perceiving  their  approach,  hid  themselves, 
and  fell  upon  the  Enghsh  by  surprise.  Colonel  Williams, 
their  leader,  fell,  and  the  troops  fled  to  their  fortifications. 
The  enemy  pursued,  and  after  some  delay,  assailed  the  fort. 

11.  The  English  recovered  their  courage,  and  by  a  well- 
directed  charge  of  their  artillery,  put  the  Indians  and  Cana- 
dians to  flight.  Dieskau,  their  commander,  was  mortally 
wounded.  On  the  next  day,  a  detachment  coming  from 
New  Hampshire  to  join  Gen.  Johnson,  sui-prised  and  defeat- 
ed about  400  of  the  enemj^  In  this  battle  the  Enghsh  lost 
about  200  men,  and  the  enemy  700.  Johnson  would  not 
proceed  any  further,  and  the  expedition  was  abandoned. 
The  attempt  against  Niagara  was  also  unsuccessful.  Gen. 
Shirley,  who  had  command  of  the  forces,  was  overtaken  by 
the  long  rains  of  autumn,  which  disheartened  his  troops, 
and  compelled  him  to  return. 

12.  During  the  winter  some  of  the  colonies  suffered  ex- 
tremely from  the  barbarity  of  the  savages.  But  prepara- 
tions were  extensively  made  to  commence  operations  again 
in  the  spring.     The  failures  of  the  last  campaign  increased 

10.  Describe  the  expedition  against  Crown  Point.  Where  is  Crown  Point? 
Ans.  On  Lake  Champlain,  in  the  State  of  New  York,  fifteen  miles  north  of  Ti- 
conderago,  and  about  100  miles  north  of  Albany.  This  fort,  so  celebrated  in 
the  American  wars,  is  now  demolished.  The  town  now  contains  about  1,800 
inhabitants. 

11.  What  was  the  result  of  the  expedition  against  Niagara?  What,  and 
■where  was  Niagara  ?  Ans.  It  was  a  strong  fort  on  Niagara  river,  at  its  entrance 
into  Lake  Ontario,  fifteen  miles  below  the  great  falls. 

12.  What  was  done  during  the  winter  ? 


175 7.  FRENCH  AND  INDIAN  WAR.  Ill 

the  caution  of  the  soldiers,  but  did  not  diminish  their  cou- 
rage. Shirley,  who  had  control  of  affairs,  proposed  that  at- 
tempts should  again  be  made  against  the  forts  Du  Gluesne, 
Niagara,  and  Crown  Point. 

13.  Early  in  the  spring  of  1756,  General  Webb  arrived 
from  England,  and  brought  intelligence  that  the  king  was 
displeased  with  the  management  of  Shirley,  but  highly  ap- 
proved of  the  conduct  of  Johnson,  and  had  confeiTed  upon 
him  distinguished  honor.  In  July,  Lord  Loudon  arrived,  as 
commander-in-chief  of  all  the  British  forces  in  America. 
But  the  season  was  so  far  advanced,  and  so  great  was  the 
difficulty  in  procuring  supplies,  that  little  or  nothing  was 
effected. 

14.  The  EngHsh  fort  at  Oswego  was  besieged  on  the 
12th  of  August,  by  General  Montcalm.  On  the  14th,  the 
English  proposed  terms  of  submission.  They  were  accept- 
ed by  the  French,  but  barbarously  violated  as  soon  as  the 
garrison  was  in  their  hands.  Many  of  the  British  soldiers 
were  seized  by  the  savages,  and  horribly  butchered.  Gen. 
Webb,  who  had  been  sent  to  the  assistance  of  the  fort,  hear- 
ing that  it  had  already  been  taken,  returned  to  Albany. 
Lord  Loudon  now  ordered  great  preparations  to  be  made  for 
vigorous  operations  in  the  spring. 

15.  Thus  another  season  passed  away,  and  nothing  of 
importance  had  been  accomplished.  The  officers  and  troops 
from  the  colonies  were  evidently  crippled  in  all  their  opera- 
tions by  the  sluggish  movements  of  the  British  command- 
ers. In  1757,  the  first  object  of  the  English  was  to  get 
possession  of  the  fort  at  Louisburg.  For  this  purpose  12,000 
troops,  and  a  fleet  of  fifteen  ships,  met  at  Halifax.  But 
hearing  that  the  French  had  just  received  a  large  reinforce- 
ment from  France,  they  abandoned  the  enterprise. 

16.  In  the  mean  time  the  French  were  not  idle.     Mont- 
is. Who  arrived  in  the  spring?    In  July?    What  was  effected ? 

14.  What  took,  place  on  the  12th  of  August,  1756?  Where  is  Oswego? 
Ans.  A  town  at  the  mouth  of  the  Oswego  river,  on  Lake  Ontario.  This  fort  is 
still  kept  up,  and  is  an  important  military  post.  How  were  the  English  treat- 
ed after  their  surrender? 

15.  What  did  the  English  attempt  to  do  in  1757?  Where  is  Louisburg? 
Ans.  The  capital  of  the  island  of  Cape  Breton  in  the  gulf  of  St.  Lawrence  ? 


112  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1758. 

calm  made  an  assault  upon  Fort  William  Henry,  on  Lake 
George.  By  the  bravery  of  the  garrison  he  was  defeated. 
But  shortly  after,  with  a  stronger  force,  he  renewed  the  at- 
tempt. On  account  of  the  cruel  neglect  of  General  Webb 
to  send  assistance,  who  with  an  army  of  4,000  men  was  sta- 
tioned at  Fort  Edward,  only  15  miles  distant,  the  com- 
mander of  the  fort  was  compelled  to  submit  on  these  condi- 
tions :  his  men  were  to  march  out  unarmed,  and  to  be 
protected  from  the  savages.  But  these  conditions  were 
shamefully  broken.  No  sooner  were  they  exposed,  than  the 
Indians  rushed  upon  them,  plundered,  and  butchered  without 
restraint.  It  was  a  horrid  scene.  The  yells  of  the  savages, 
the  shrieks  of  the  helpless  soldiers,  and  their  dying  groans, 
rent  the  heavens,  while  the  French  looked  on  unmoved,  or 
at  least,  rendered  no  assistance. 

17.  Thus  shamefully  closed  the  third  campaign.  It  ought 
to  be  told,  to  the  disgrace  of  the  British  officers,  that  their 
jealousy  and  contempt  for  the  colonial  troops,  was  the  prin- 
cipal cause  of  all  this  ill  success.  Thousands  fell  a  sacrifice 
to  their  pride  and  folly.  The  king,  indignant  at  these  dis- 
graceful results,  appointed  a  new  ministry,  and  placed  the 
celebrated  William  Pitt*  at  the  head  of  affairs.  The  aspect 
of  things  was  now  entirely  changed.  New  officers  were 
appointed  to  command  the  British  forces.  New  England 
raised  15,000  men,  and  Gen.  Abercrombie,  who  was  now 
commander-in-chief,  commenced  the  fourth  campaign  at  the 
head  of  50,000  troops. 

18.  About  the  first  of  June,  1758,  General  Amherst,  with 

16.  Who  made  an  attack  upon  Fort  William  Henry  ?  To  whom  is  to  be 
attributed  the  surrender  of  the  fort  ?  On  what  conditions  did  the  garrison  sur- 
render?    State  the  massacre  that  followed. 

17.  What  was  the  cause  of  the  ill  success  of  the  English  ?  Who  was  now 
placed  at  the  head  of  the  British  mijaistry  ?  Who  was  appointed  commander- 
in-chief;  and  with  how  many  men  did  he  commence  the  fourth  campaign? 
What  is  the  meaning  of  campaign  ? 

18.  Describe  the  capture  of  Louisburg;  the  attack  on  Ticonderoga? 
Where  was  the  fortress  of  Ticonderoga  ? 

*  William  Pitt,  earl  of  Chatham,  was  born  in  1708,  and  died  in  1778.    He  was  one 
of  the  most  illustrious  statesmen  that  England  ever  had,  one  of  those  that  ruled  his 
country  solely  by  the  superiority  of  his  genius.    As  an  orator,  he  was  unrivaled. 
■The  music  and  majesty  of  his  voice,  the  persuasive  gracefulness  and  irresistible--" 
force  of  his  action,  and  his  power  of  eye,  all  carried  conviction  with  his  argument. 


1*759.  FRENCH   AND    INDIAN   "WAR.  113 

14,000  soldiers,  commenced  the  siege  of  Louisburg.  On 
the  26th  of  July,  he  took  possession  of  the  fort.  About 
1,500  of  the  French  were  killed,  and  5,000  carried  prisoners 
to  England.  In  the  mean  time,  Abercrombie  marched 
against  the  enemy  at  Ticonderoga.  This  fortress  was  very 
difficult  of  access.  It  was  situated  on  the  river  between 
Lake  George  and  Lake  Champlain,  nearly  suiTOunded  by 
water,  and  strongly  fortified  in  front.  On  approaching  the 
fort.  Lord  Howe,  a  brave  and  valuable  officer  was  killed. 
Abercrombie  maintained  a  severe  contest  of  four  hours,  and 
after  a  loss  of  2,000  men,  retreated  to  the  head  of  Lake 
George. 

19.  On  the  27th  of  August,  Colonel  Bradstreet,  with 
3,000  men,  took  possession  of  Fort  Frontenac,  on  Lake  On- 
tario. By  this  exploit,  he  deprived  the  French  and  Indians 
of  a  large  supply  of  arms  and  stores,  besides  a  fleet  of  nine 
vessels  of  war,  which  lay  in  the  harbor. 

20.  By  this  time  an  expedition  had  also  been  made  against 
Fort  Du  Gluesne,  by  General  Forbes,  with  an  army  of  8,000 
men.  After  a  most  laborious  march,  he  arrived  at  the  fort, 
and  found  it  deserted.  The  French,  fearing  a  siege,  had 
left  their  post  and  sailed  down  the  Ohio.  General  Forbes, 
in  honor  of  WilHam  Pitt,  the  prime  minister  of  England, 
called  the  place  Pittsburgh.  Thus  closed  the  successful 
campaign  of  1 758.  This  change  of  fortune  must  be  ascribed 
to  the  energies  of  Pitt,  and  to  his  wisdom  in  the  choice  of 
men  to  execute  his  plans. 

21.  Animated  by  the  success  of  the  last  year,  Pitt 
marked  out  a  bold  plan  for  the  entire  subjugation  of  the 
French  possessions  in  America.  Gtiiebec,  Niagara,  and  Ti- 
conderoga, were  now  the  strongholds  of  the  enemy.  The 
English  forces  were  recruited,  and  in  1759,  an  expedition 
was  commenced  against  each  of  these  places.  The  one 
against  Gluebec,  was  placed  under  the  command  of  Gen. 

19.  When  and  by  whom  was  Fort  Frontenac  taken  ?  Where  was  Fort 
Frontenac  ?     Ans.  In  Canada,  now  called  Kingston. 

20.  What  did  General  Forbes  do  ?  Why  had  the  French  left  Port  Du 
Quesne  ?  What  did  Forbes  call  this  place  ?  In  honor  of  whom  was  it  called 
Pittsburgh  ?     To  whom  must  the  success  of  this  campaign  be  ascribed  ? 

21.  Against  what  places  were  expeditions  commenced  in  1759? 

10* 


114  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1759, 

Wolfe;  that  against  Ticonderoga  and  Crown  Point,  the 
central  and  main  army,  was  to  be  commanded  by  General 
Amherst,  the  new  commander-in-chief;  and  the  other  against 
Niagara,  by  General  Prideaux. 

22.  General  Amherst  commenced  preparations  for  his  part 
of  the  enterprise  early  in  the  winter ;  but  it  was  not  until 
the  last  of  May,  that  his  troops  reached  Albany.*  About 
the  middle  of  June,  he  marched  against  Ticonderoga  and 
Crown  Point,  and  finding  both  of  these  places  deserted  by 
the  enemy,  who  had  fled  to  the  Isle  Aux  Noix,  he  proceeded 
up  the  lake.  But  being  met  by  violent  storms,  he  was 
obhged  to  return  to  Crown  Point. 

23.  In  July,  General  Prideaux  commenced  the  siege  of 
the  fort  at  Niagara.  The  French,  to  save  this  important 
post,  rallied  all  their  forces  in  that  region.  Prideaux  was 
killed  during  the  siege.  Sir  William  Johnson,  who  now 
took  command,  observing  the  movements  of  the  enemy,  in- 
trenched his  forces  and  prepared  for  defense.  The  French, 
with  their  Indian  allies,  came  up  and  made  an  impetuous 
assault ;  but  in  less  than  an  hour,  were  entirely  defeated. 
On  the  next  day  the  English  took  possession  of  the  fort. 

24.  But  the  most  glorious  exploit  of  this  year  is  yet  to  be 

22.  Describe  the  expedition  of  General  Amherst. 

23.  Who  took  the  command  after  Prideaux  was  killed?  What  was  the 
result  1 

*  Yankee  Doodle  was  written  by  Dr.  Shackburg  of  the  British  army,  while  it  lay 
encamped,  in  1759,  on  the  eastern  bank  of  the  Hudson,  under  General  Amherst. 
The  colonies  were  called  upon  for  troops  to  march  against  Ticonderoga  and  (.Jrown 
Point,  and  as  they  came  in,  their  march,  accoutrements,  dress,  &c.,  &c.,  furnished 
matter  of  amusement  to  the  wits  of  the  British  army.    The  tunes,  or  marches 

Jlayed,  were  about  two  centuries  old.  Dr.  S.  composed  a  tune  to  please  brother 
onathan,  and  recommended  it  to  the  American  officers  as  a  celebrated  air,  called 
Yankee  Doodle.  The  joke  took,  and  in  a  few  days  nothing  was  heard  in  the  Amer- 
ican camp,  but  the  tune  of  Yankee  Doodle  !  In  less  than  30  years  from  that  time, 
Lord  Cornwallis  and  his  army,  marched  into  the  American  lines  to  the  tune  of 
Yankee  Doodle.— See  Amer.  En.  vol.  13,  p.  297. 

The  word  "  Yankee,"  according  to  Thatcher,  in  his  Military  Journal,  p.  19,  orig- 
inated as  follows  :  "  A  farmer  of  Cambridge,  Mass.,  named  .Jonathan  Hastings,  who 
lived  about  the  year  1713,  used  it  as  a  favorite  cant,  word  to  express  excellence  ;  as,  a 
yankee  good  horse,  or  yankee  good  cider.  The  students  of  the  college  hearing  him 
use  it  a  great  deal,  adopted  it,  and  called  him  Yankee  Jo7iathan  ;  and  as  he  was 
rather  a  weak  man,  the  students,  when  they  wished  to  denote  a  character  of  that 
kind,  would  call  him  Yankee  Jonathan.  Like  other  cant  words,  it  spread  and  came 
finally  to  be  apphed  to  the  New  Englanders,  as  a  tei*m  of  reproach.  Some  suppose 
the  term  to  be  a  corrupt  Indian  pronunciation  of  the  word  English,  whom  they 
called  Yeng-eeee,  Yenglees,  Yanglees,  Yanklees,  and  finally  Yankee. 


1759.         .   FRENCH  AND  INDIAN  WAR.  115 

recorded.  General  Wolfe,*  who  had  distinguished  himself 
at  Louisburg,  undertook  the  reduction  of  Q,uebec.  This  city 
stands  on  the  north  side  of  the  St.  Lawrence,  and  is  strongly 
defended  by  nature.  It  consists  of  two  parts,  an  upper  and 
a  lower  town.  The  lower  town  is  built  on  a  plain  between 
the  shore  of  the  river  and  the  base  of  a  very  steep  rock, 
called  the  Heights  of  Abraham.  The  upper  town  is  built 
on  the  top  of  this  rock,  which  runs  parallel  with  the  river. 
The  east  side  is  protected  by  the  river  St.  Charles,  which 
empties  into  the  St.  Lawrence,  and  in  which  were  floating 
batteries  and  armed  ships. 

25.  Wolfe,  with  an  army  of  8,000  men,  landed  on  the 
island  of  Orleans,  just  below  the  city.  Soon  after,  he  erected 
batteries  on  the  bank  of  the  St.  Lawrence,  opposite  the  city. 
But  so  wide  was  the  river,  that  his  cannon  could  not  pro- 
duce much  effect  upon  the  forts  of  the  enemy.  He  now  de- 
termined to  cross  the  river,  land  below  the  city,  and  attack 
the  French  army  which  lay  intrenched  on  the  banks  of  the 
St.  Charles.  In  this  attempt  he  was  defeated,  with  the  loss 
of  500  men.  He  next  attempted  to  destroy  the  shipping, 
but  succeeded  only  in  burning  one  magazine. 

26.  Wolfe  now  saw  that  the  difficulties  to  be  encountered 
were  almost  insurmountable.  But  his  daring  spirit  thirsted 
for  the  glory  of  victory,  or  death  in  the  attempt.  Hearing 
of  the  success  of  his  fellow-officers  at  Niagara  and  Ticon- 
deroga,  and  dreading  the  disgrace  of  a  failure  in  his  enter- 
prise, he  determined  to  hazard  the  bold  attempt  of  scaling 
the  rock,  and  approach  the  enemy  in  a  manner  least  ex- 
pected. His  troops  had  caught  the  fire  of  their  leader,  and 
were  ready  for  the  most  daring  exploit. 

27.  There  was  only  one  narrow  spot  between  the  rocks 

24.  Who  undertook  the  reduction  of  Quebec  in  1759  ?  Give  a  description 
of  Quebec. 

25,  26.  Mention  some  of  his  attempts  to  take  Quebec. 
27.  In  what  manner  did  he  gain  the  Heights  of  Abraham  ? 

*  James  Wolfe  was  born  in  Westerham,  England,  in  1727.  He  entered  young  into 
the  army,  and  soon  distinguished  himself  as  a  brave  and  skillful  officer.  He  was 
formed  by  nature  for  military  gi-eatness.  His  apprehensions  were  quick  and  clear, 
his  judgment  sound,  and  his  courage  daring.  He  was  manly,  gentle,  kind,  and  con- 
ciliating in  his  manners.    He  died  in  the  33d  year  of  his  age. 


116  HISTORY   OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*759. 

where  it  was  possible  to  land  and  ascend  the  Heights.  To 
conceal  his  design,  Wolfe  sailed  his  fleet  several  miles  up 
the  river.  In  the  night  he  set  his  army  on  board  of  boats, 
and  floated  down  with  the  stream  to  the  place  of  landing. 
Wolfe  was  the  first  man  on  shore.  His  troops  at  once  be- 
gan to  climb  the  rock,  and  by  the  aid  of  bushes  and  project- 
ing crags,  they  gained  the  summit.  Here  they  found  a 
guard,  which  they  soon  subdued,  and  before  morning  the 
whole  army  was  arrayed  on  the  plains  above. 

28.  Montcalm,*  the  French  general,  was  amazed  at  this 
daring  achievement,  and  immediately  marched  his  army  to 
meet  the  English.  His  troops  were  fresh  and  eager  for 
battle.  The  Indians  and  Canadians  first  advanced,  but 
Wolfe  ordered  his  men  to  reserve  their  strength  for  the  main 
body  of  the  enemy.  The  battle  was  hot  and  bloody  on  both 
sides.  After  a  destructive  fire  kept  up  for  some  time, 
Wolfe  ordered  his  grenadiers  to  charge  bayonet  and  rush 
upon  the  French.  At  this  moment  he  received  a  mortal 
wound.  About  the  same  time,  Montcalm,  fighting  in  front 
of  his  battalion,  received  a  mortal  wound,  and  his  second  in 
command  almost  at  the  same  instant  fell  by  his  side. 

29.  Wolfe  died  in  the  triumphs  of  victory.  In  the  first 
part  of  the  battle  he  received  a  wound  in  the  wrist ;  soon 
after,  another  more  severe  in  the  lower  part  of  the  body. 
Concealing  his  wounds,  he  cheered  on  his  men,  and  was 
advancing  at  the  head  of  his  grenadiers,  with  charged  bay- 
onets, when  a  ball  pierced  his  breast.  As  he  fell,  he  was 
caught  by  his  attendant,  and  carried  out  of  the  line.  As  he 
la}^  fainting  in  death,  with  his  head  on  the  arm  of  another, 
"  Tell  me,"  said  he,  "do  the  enemy  give  way  there?  Tell 
me,  for  I  can  not  see."     He  now  rechned  his  head  and 

28.  What  did  Montcalm  then  do?     Describe  the  battle. 

29.  How  many  wounds  did  Wolfe  receive  ?  What  were  the  last  words  of 
Wolfe?     Of  Montcalm? 

*  Louis  Joseph  Montcalm,  Marquis  of  St.  Vernon,  was  born  in  France,  near 
Nismes,  in  1712.  He  was  carefully  educated,  and  entered  the  military  service  in  his 
15th  year,  and  distinguished  himself  on  several  occasions  in  Italy,  Bohemia,  and 
Germany.  In  1756,  he  was  sent  to  Canada  as  commander-in-chief  of  the  French 
forces  in  America.  He  possessed  all  those  qualities  requisite  to  form  a  great  and 
skillful  commander.  He  was  brave,  generous,  noble,  and  compassionate.  He  died 
in  the  47th  year  of  his  age. 


17G0. 


FRENCH    AND    INDIAN    WAR. 


m 


ON     THE     HEIGHTS     OF     ABRAHAM  . — D  E  A  T  H     OF     WOLFE, 


closed  his  eyes.  Soon  the  distant  crj,  "they  flj^,  they  flj^." 
aroused  the  expiring  hero.  "Who  fly?"  said  he.  "The 
French,  the  French,"  was  the  reply.  "  Then,"  said  he,  "  I 
die  happ3^,"  and  instantly  expired.  Montcalm  also  died  a 
glorious  death.  He  was  carried  into  the  city,  and  when 
told  that  his  wound  was  mortal,  he  replied,  "  So  much  the 
better ;  I  shall  not  then  live  to  see  the  surrender  of  Q.uebec." 
His  last  moments  w^ere  employed  in  writing,  with  his  own 
hand,  a  letter  to  the  English  general,  recommending  the 
French  prisoners  to  his  care  and  humanity.  Thus  died 
Wolfe  and  Montcalm,  in  the  prime  of  hfe.  They  were 
noble,  generous,  brave,  every  way  worthy  of  being  competi- 
tors. In  talents,  in  military  skill,  in  personal  courage, 
they  were  equals,  and  their  death  was  universally  lamented. 
30.  Five  days  after  the  battle,  the  city  was  surrendered  to 
the  English.  The  next  spring  the  French  attempted  to  re- 
take Gluebec,  but  did  not  succeed.  The  EngHsh  forces  were 
soon  after  directed  against  Montreal.  On  the  8th  of  Sep- 
tember, 1760,  that  city,  with  all  the  important  posts  of  the 

30.  When  was  the  city  surrendered  ?  When  was  Montreal  taken  ?  When 
was  a  treaty  of  peace  concluded  between  France  and  England  ?  What  did 
the  French  relinquish  ? 


118  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1*764. 

French  in  Canada,  was  delivered  up  to  the  Enghsh.  In 
1763,  a  treaty  of  peace  was  concluded  at  Paris,  by  which 
France  relinquished  all  her  claims  in  the  northern  parts  of 
America.     Thus  ended  the  French  war. 


EVENTS  LEADING  TO  THE  REVOLUTION. 

1.  The  success  of  this  war  ag-ainst  the  French  and  In- 
dians, relieved  the  colonies  from  all  apprehensions  of  a  foreign 
invasion,  and  the  dread  of  savage  hostilities.  They  felt 
secure  under  the  protection  of  Great  Britain,  she  now  being 
mistress  of  the  ocean,  and  at  peace  with  the  world.  The 
troops  of  the  colonies,  during  the  war,  had  had  a  fair  oppor- 
tunity of  comparing  their  own  skill,  courage,  and  strength, 
with  that  of  the  bravest  soldiers  of  Europe.  They  had 
proved  themselves  in  no  respect  inferior  in  war,  and  by  their 
enterprise  and  success  in  commerce  and  trade,  they  had 
already  excited  the  admiration  of  the  civihzed  world. 

2.  England  for  m.any  years  had  been  growing  jealous  of 
the  colonies,  and  in  several  instances  had  endeavored  to  de- 
stroy their  liberties.  She  now  commenced  a  course  of  man- 
ifest injustice  toward  them,  which,  instead  of  humbling 
them,  led  them  to  combine  all  their  energies  to  resist  her  op- 
pression. England  regarded  the  colonists  not  as  entitled  to 
the  privileges  of  subjects,  but  rather  as  slaves,  who  were  to 
toil  and  suffer  for  her  aggrandizement.  She  had,  indeed, 
been  at  great  expense  to  defend  them  against  the  encroach- 
ments of  the  French  and  Indians  ;  but  for  all  this,  she  either 
had  been,  or  soon  would  have  been,  amply  rewarded. 

3.  Soon  after  the  war,  the  British  government  asserted 
the  right  to  tax  the  people  of  America.  In  1764,  a  bill  was 
passed,  imposing  a  heavy  duty  on  certain  goods  imported 

1.  Of  what  were  the  colonists  relieved  by  the  successful  termination  of  the 
French  war?  What  is  said  of  Great  Britain  at  this  time?  How  did  the 
American  troops  compare  with  those  of  Europe  ?  What  is  said  of  their  enter- 
prise in  commerce  ? 

2.  How  did  England  feel  toward  the  colonies  ?  How  did  she  begin  to  treat 
them? 

3.  What  right  did  the  British  government  claim  soon  after  the  war  ?  What 
did  they  do  in  1764  ? 


1765.  EVENTS    LEADING    TO    THE    REVOLUTION.  119 

into  the  colonies.  The  principle  of  taxation  was  considered 
by  the  Americans  as  altogether  unconstitutional  and  unjust. 
Thej  were  not  permitted  to  send  representatives  to  parlia- 
ment to  plead  their  cause  ;  and  therefore,  according  to  the 
Enghsh  law,  they  could  not  be  justly  taxed. 

4.  The  next  year  the  celebrated  "  stamp  act^^  was  passed. 
This  bill  required  that  every  piece  of  paper  or  parchment, 
which  was  used  in  the  transaction  of  business,  should  have 
a  stamp  upon  it,  and  that  for  every  such  piece,  a  tax,  greater 
or  less,  should  be  paid  to  government.  This  bill  was  very 
strongly  opposed  by  some  members  of  parliament,  especially 
by  Colonel  Barre,  who,  knowing  the  spirit  of  the  colonists, 
made  an  eloquent  speech  against  it.  But  it  passed  by  an 
almost  unanimous  vote. 

5.  When  the  news  arrived  in  America,  the  people  were 
filled  with  grief  and  indignation.  Riots  broke  out  in  the 
cities,  and  the  stamp  act  was  exhibited  as  "  the  folly  of 
England  and  the  ruin  of  America."  The  bells  were  muffled, 
and  tolled  "  the  knell  of  freedom."  Combinations,  styling 
themselves  "  sons  of  liberty,"  were  formed  to  resist  the  en- 
forcement of  this  obnoxious  law.  The  general  assembhes 
protested  against  it ;  addresses  and  appeals  were  made  to 
the  people  of  England,  showing  the  injustice  of  the  law, 
and  praying  that  it  might  be  repealed.  The  officers  of  the 
British  government  were  objects  of  popular  hatred,  and  most 
of  them  were  compelled  to  disregard  the  stamp  law,  or  re- 
sign their  offices. 

6.  In  October,  agreeably  to  a  recommendation  of  Massa- 
chusetts, delegates  from  nine  of  the  colonies  met  in  con- 
gress at  New  York,  to  consult  for  the  general  safety.  They 
passed  an  act.  declaring  their  rights  and  liberties  as  lawful 
subjects  of  Great  Britain.     They  remonstrated  against  the 

4.  What  famous  act  was  passed  in  1765? 

5.  What  effect  had  the  "  stamp  act"  on  the  colonies?  W^hat  did  the  people 
do? 

6.  When  and  where  was  the  first  congress,  or  general  meeting  of  the  colonies 
held  ?  Which  of  the  colonies  sent  delegates  ?  Av^.  Massachusetts,  Rhode 
Island,  Connecticut,  New  York,  New  Jersey,  Pennsylvania,  Delaware,  Ma- 
ryland, and  South  Carolina.  What  did  they  do  ?  To  what  extent  was  the 
stamp  act  opposed  ?  Ans.  Probably  not  a  single  stamp  was  ever  used  in  the 
colonies. 


120  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1767. 

Stamp  act,  and  petitioned  for  its  immediate  repeal.  The 
merchants  of  that  city  entered  into  agreement  not  to  import 
any  more  goods  from  Enghind,  till  the  stamp  act  was  re- 
pealed. In  all  parts  of  the  country,  the  people  gave  up  im- 
ported goods,  and  used  home  manufactures.  They  even 
abstained  from  eating  lamb,  that  the  growth  of  wool  might 
be  increased. 

7.  But  a  change  had  now  taken  place  in  England,  The 
people  of  that  country  began  to  feel  the  bad  effects  of  this 
check  upon  their  trade  with  America,  and  a  proposition  was 
made  in  parliament  to  repeal  the  stamp  act.  William  Pitt, 
who  was  not  present  when  the  act  was  passed,  made  a 
powerful  speech  in  favor  of  repealing  it.  He  declared  that 
England  had  "  no  right"  to  tax  the  colonies.  The  act  was  re- 
pealed. The  news  caused  universal  joy  throughout  America. 
Bells  were  ri^ng,  cannon  were  fired,  and  festivals  were  held. 

8.  But  in  repealing  the  stamp  act,  the  British  government 
by  no  means  intended  to  give  up  the  principle  of  taxation  in 
every  forai.  In  1767,  a  duty  was  imposed  on  tea,  glass,  and 
other  articles.  The  colonies  again  took  the  alarm,  and 
manifested  their  indignation  as  before.  The  people  of  Mas- 
sachusetts sent  delegates  to  Boston,  to  consult  with  the 
citizens  of  that  place,  upon  measures  for  resisting  the  king 
and  parliament.  The  citizens  of  Boston  had  already  incur- 
red the  displeasure  of  his  majest}'',  and  General  Gage  was 
now  ordered  to  repair  to  that  place,  with  a  regiment  of  troops 
to  protect  the  public  officers,  and  quell  all  disturbances. 

9.  The  soldiers  arrived,  and  were  stationed  in  different 

7.  Was  there  any  opposition  to  the  stamp  act  in  England  ?  Ans.  There 
was.  Many  articles  were  written  and  published,  showing  the  injustice  of  the 
act.  Many  speakers  in  both  houses  of  parliament  denied  their  right  of  taxing 
the  colonics.  Lord  Camden,  in  the  house  of  lords,  in  strong  language,  said; 
"My  position  is  this  ;  1  repeat  it;  I  will  maintain  it  to  my  last  hour.  Taxa- 
tion AND  Representation  are  inseparable.  This  position  is  founded 
on  the  laws  of  nature.  It  is  more.  It  is  itself  an  eternal  law  of  nature.  For 
whatever  is  a  man's  own,  is  absolutely  his  own.  No  man  has  a  right  to  take 
it  from  him  without  his  own  consent.  Whoever  attempts  to  do  it,  attempts  an 
injury.  Whoever  does  it,  commits  a  robbery."  What  did  Wm.  Pitt  say? 
Was  the  act  repealed  ?     What  effect  had  this  news  on  the  colonies? 

8.  What  was  done  in  1767?  What  did  the  people  of  Massachusetts  do? 
What  British  geneial  was  ordered  to  Boston  with  a  regiment  of  troops  ? 

9.  What  took  place  on  the  5th  of  March,  1770  ? 


1*7 70.      EVENTS  LEADING  TO  THE  REVOLUTION.        121 


08T0N     MASSACRE. 


parts  of  the  city.  Their  insolence  often  excited  the  people 
to  resistance,  and  instead  of  subduing  the  spirit  of  hberty, 
daily  increased  it.  On  the  5th  of  March,  1770,  a  riot  took 
place,  during  which,  a  party  of  soldiers  being  insulted,  fired 
upon  the  citizens,  killed  three,  and  wounded  several  others. 
The  next  day  they  were  arrested  and  imprisoned.  This 
event  was  afterward  commemorated  as  the  Boston  Mas- 
sacre. At  the  demand  of  the  citizens,  the  troops  were 
removed  from  the  city.  The  dead  were  buried  with  great 
pomp  and  solemnity.  Soon  after,  the  soldiers  were  brought 
to  trial,  and  two  of  them  found  guilty  of  manslaughter. 

10.  To  appease  the  people  of  the  colonies,  parHament  re- 
pealed all  the  duties  except  that  on  tea.  But  America  was 
not  to  be  satisfied,  so  long  as  the  principle  of  taxation  was 
not  renounced.  The  value  of  a  few  pence  on  a  pound  of 
tea,  was  not  what  she  contended  for.  The  right  to  take 
one  penny,  implied  the  right  to  take  a  thousand.  The  col- 
onies denied  the  right.  Tea,  therefore,  was  at  once  banished 
from  the  tables  of  all,  both  rich  and  poor,  who  regarded  the 
liberties  of  their  country. 


10.  What  did  parliament  do  to  appease  the  colonists  ? 
,    people  satisfied  ? 
\  11 


Why  v/ere  not  the 


122 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1773. 


11.  For  two  or  three  years  no  tea  was  imported  into  the 
colonies.  In  1773,  the  government  of  England  determined 
to  force  this  article  into  their  ports.  Accordingly  the  East 
India  company  was  directed  to  send  several  cargoes  of  tea 
to  America.  The  people  of  New  York  and  Philadelphia 
would  not  suffer  the  tea  to  be  Jjrought  ashore.  At  Boston, 
the  masters  of  the  ships  met  with  such  violent  opposition, 
that  they  would  gladly  have  returned  to  England  immedi- 
ately, but  the  king's  governor  would  not  permit  them  to 
leave  the  port. 


THROWING  THE  TEA  OVERBOARD, 


12.  At  a  large  meeting  of  the  citizens,  it  was  resolved, 
that  "  the  tea  should  not  be  landed."  One  night  a  party  of 
men,  dressed  in  the  garb  of  Indians,  went  on  board  the  ships, 
broke  open  the  chests,  and  poured  all  the  tea  into  the  ocean. 
This  bold  exploit  exasperated  the  king  and  parliament ;  and 
to  humble  the  Bostonians,  they  passed  an  act  to  blockade 
the  port,  break  up  their  trade,  and  remove  the  custom-house 
to  Salem. 


What 


11.  Did  they  continue  the  use  of  tea?     What  took  place  in  1773? 
did  the  people  of  New  York  and  Philadelphia  do? 

12.  What  was  done  by  the  people  of  Boston  ?     Did  they  do  right  in  throwing 
the  tea  overboard  ?     What  did  the  king  and  parliament  now  do  ? 


1'7'74.  EVENTS    LEADING    TO    THE    REVOLUTION.  123 

13.  This  act,  called  the  Boston  Port  Bill,  produced  great 
distress  in  Boston,  as  it  at  once  deprived  the  greater  part  of 
the  population  of  their  usual  means  of  subsistence.  But 
the  mhabitants  soon  found  that  the  whole  country  were 
sympathizing  with  them.  Contributions  were  raised  in  other 
places,  for  the  relief  of  all  who  were  thrown  out  of  business 
by  this  bill.  The  people  of  Salem  refused  to  take  the  trade 
of  their  "  suffering  neighbors,"  and  gave  up  their  wharves 
and  storehouses,  for  the  relief  of  the  Boston  merchants. 

14.  In  Virginia  a  day  of  fasting  and  prayer  was  observed. 
It  was  devoutly  implored,  that  God  would  give  to  the  peo- 
ple one  heart  and  one  mind,  firmly  to  oppose  every  invasion 
of  American  rights.  It  was  a  serious  time.  The  people  in 
all  parts  of  the  country  united  in  a  "  Solemn  League  and 
Covenant,"  to  break  ofi'  all  intercourse  with  Great  Britain. 
All  seemed  actuated  by  an  invincible  spirit  of  patriotism  and 
love  of  liberty.  A  few,  however,  favored  the  cause  of  Eng- 
land. These  were  called  Tories,  while  those  who  favored 
the  cause  of  American  rights,  were  called  Whi(/s.  The 
lovers  of  liberty  had  no  hope  of  success  against  the  military 
force  of  England ;  but  they  did  hope  that  continued  resist- 
ance would  lead  her  to  yield  to  the  claims  of  justice. 

15.  Yet  the  colonies  now  determined  to  prepare  for  a 
united  and  desperate  struggle.  On  the  5th  of  September, 
1774,  delegates  from  all  the  provinces,  except  Georgia,  met 
in  congress  at  Philadelphia.  Their  deliberations  were  secret. 
Nothing  was  to  be  made  public  without  a  vote  of  congress. 
They  insisted  on  the  rights  of  the  colonies,  and  resolved  to 
break  off  all  trade  with  Great  Britain,  until  these  rights 
were  acknowledged.  They  sent  addresses  to  the  king  and 
people  of  England,  expressing  a  warm  attachment  to  the 

13.  What  was  this  act  called  ?  How  were  the  Bostonians  regarded  by  the 
people  of  the  country  ?  Wa.s  not  this  act  directly  calculated  to  benefit  the 
people  of  Salem  ?     What  was  their  conduct  ? 

14.  What  was  done  in  Virginia?  What  did  the  people  do  in  all  parts  of  the 
country  ?  What  two  parties  were  now  formed  ?  Who  were  called  Tories  ? 
Who  were  called  Whigs  ? 

15.  What  did  the  colonies  now  determine  to  do  ?  When  and  where  did  a 
p-ovincial  congress  meet  ?  From  what  provinces  did  delegates  attend  ?  Who 
■was  chosen  president  of  this  congress  ?  Am.  John  Hancock.  What  did  this 
congress  do  ? 


124  HISTORY    OP   THE    UNITED    STATES,  1774. 

mother  country,  and  declaring,  that  they  desired  nothing, 
which,  as  loyal  subjects,  they  had  not  a  right  to  claim. 
After  a  session  of  eight  weeks,  having  recommended  a  meet- 
ing of  another  congress  the  next  year,  they  dissolved. 

16.  Their  addresses  displayed  so  much  force  of  argument, 
so  much  knowledge  of  political  science,  and  so  much  glow- 
ing patriotism,  that  a  strong  impression  was  made  in  favor 
of  their  cause.  In  the  British  senate,  Mr.  Pitt  made  a  most 
eloquent  speech  in  behalf  of  America.  He  spoke  in  the 
highest  terms  of  the  wisdom  and  dignity  of  the  congress  at 
Philadelphia. 

17.  In  all  the  colonies,  the  enactments  and  resolutions  of 
congress  were  observed  with  the  utmost  respect  and  obedi- 
ence. Every  preparation  was  now  making  for  war.  Mili- 
tary stores,  arms,  ammunition,  &c.,  were  provided  in  all  the 
colonies.  The  people  began  to  train  themselves  in  the  use 
of  the  sword  and  musket.  Massachusetts,  especially,  pur- 
sued a  decided  course  in  opposition  to  the  governor,  and  in 
preparation  for  conflict. 

18.  General  Gage,*  who  had  been  appointed  governor  by 
the  king,  took  possession  of  all  the  fortifications  around 
Boston.  An  army  was  quartered  in  the  city,  ready  to  march 
at  any  moment,  according  to  his  orders.  But  with  all  this 
array  of  force,  he  could  not  suppress  the  combinations  of  the 
people.  An  assembly  was  called,  consisting  of  delegates 
from  all  the  towns  in  the  province.  Measures  were  taken 
to  raise  an  army  of  12.000  men,  and  a  strong  force  was  kept 
in  readiness  to  march  at  a  moment's  warning. 

19.  Matters  were  now  fast  approaching  to  a  serious  crisis. 
Nothing  had  been  done  in  England  to  satisfy  the  colonies. 

16.  What  effect  did  their  addresses  produce  ? 

17.  What  did  the  people  begin  to  do  ? 

18.  Who  was  now  appointed  governor  of  Massachusetts  by  the  king  ?  What 
was  called  in  Massachusetts  at  this  time  ?  What  measures  were  taken  by  this 
assembly  ? 

19-  What  was  now  evident  ?     What  is  said  of  the  Americans  ? 

•  Thomas  Gage,  the  last  governor  of  Massachusetts  appointed  by  the  king,  was  an 
officer  of  some  distinction  in  the  British  army.  He  arrived  at  Boston,  May  13,  1774, 
and  began  that  course  of  illegal  and  oppressive  acts  which  hastened  on  the  war  of 
the  Revolution.  In  Oct.  1775,  he  was  recalled  to  England,  and  was  succeeded  in  the 
command  by  Sir  William  Howe.    He  died  in  1787. 


1774. 


WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION. 


125 


The  Americans  were  reproached  in  parliament  as  "cow- 
ardly, undisciplined,  feeble,"  &c.  It  was  evident,  too,  from 
the  strong  force  which  had  already  arrived  from  England, 
that  she  designed  to  compel  the  colonists  to  submit  to  her 
unjust  laws.  Bat  the  Americ'ans,  except  a  small  party, 
who  were  courting  the  favor  of  the  king,  were  united  and 
firm  in  their  determination,  weak  as  they  were,  to  maintain 
their  rights  against  the  strongest  nation  in  the  world. 


WAR  OF  THE  REVOLUTION. 


BATTLE      OF      LEXINGTON, 


1.  At  Concord,  the  colonists,  by  authority  from  the  pro- 
vincial congress,  had  collected  a  quantity  of  provisions  and 
military  stores.  These,  General  Gage  resolved  to  destroy. 
For  this  purpose  he  despatched  from  Boston  a  body  of  800 

1.  What  had  thf^eople  collected  at  the  town  of  Concord  ?  Where  is  Con- 
cord ?  Ari^.  it  is  18  miles  northwest  of  Boston.  How  many  men  did  General 
Gage  send  to  destroy  these  stores  ?  Why  did  he  wish  to  destroy  them  ?  Did 
these  troops  meet  with  any  opposition?  Where?  Where  is  Lexington? 
Ans.  It  is  eleven  miles  northwest  of  Boston.  Describe  the  battle  of  Lex- 
ington. 

11* 


126  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1774. 

troops  on  the  evening  of  the  18th  of  April  News  of  this 
design  was  immediately  sent  to  Lexington  and  Concord,  and 
early  next  morning  the  mihtia  of  these  towns  had  assem- 
bled in  arms  for  defense.  Bells  and  signal  gmis  soon  spread 
the  alarm.  When  the  British  troops  came  to  Lexington, 
they  found  the  militia  assembled  near  the  meeting-house. 
Major  Pitcairn,  commander  of  the  British,  rode  up  to  them 
and  cried  with  a  loud  voice,  "  Disperse,  disperse,  you  rebels  ; 
throw  down  your  arms  and  disperse."  His  orders  not  being 
obeyed,  he  discharged  his  pistol,  and  commanded  his  men  to 
fire  upon  them.  After  returning  a  few  shots,  the  militia  fled, 
This  was  the  first  battle  in  the  war  of  the  Revolution. 

2.  The  British  proceeded  to  Concord,  and  destroyed  the 
greater  part  of  the  military  stores.  But  the  militia  of  the 
neighboring  towns  were  fast  collecting,  and  opening  a  deadly 
fire  upon  them,  and  they  were  obliged  to  retreat  with  all  pos- 
sible haste.  But  they  did  not  escape  without  great  loss.  A 
galling  fire  was  poured  upon  them  from  behind  the  fences, 
trees,  and  stone  walls,  along  the  entire  road.  When  they 
arrived  at  Lexington,  exhausted  by  their  march,  they  were 
saved  from  total  destruction  by  Lord  Percy,  who,  with  900 
men,  and  two  pieces  of  cannon,  had  been  sent  from  Boston 
to  meet  them. 

3.  On  their  way  to  Boston,  they  were  incessantly  harassed 
by  the  provincials,  who  kept  up  a  well-directed  fire  from 
both  sides  of  the  road.  During  the  day  the  British  lost  273 
men  ;  the  loss  of  the  Americans  was  88  killed  and  wounded. 
This  battle  was  the  signal  of  war.  Intelligence  of  it  flew 
like  lightning.  Couriers,  beating  a  drum,  galloped  in  every 
direction,  shouting  in  thrilling  tones, '  "  To  arms  !  to  arms  ! 
liberty  or  death  !"  The  whole  country  was  in  a  blaze. 
All  ranks  and  conditions  were  aroused,  and  seizing  their 
weapons,  hastened  to  the  scene  of  action.  In  a  few  days, 
the  British  forces  in  Boston  were  surrounded   by  twenty 


2.  What  did  the  British  now  do  ?  After  this,  what  were  they  obliged  to  do  ? 
Describe  their  return  to  Boston. 

3.  How  many  did  the  British  lose  in  their  excursion  to  Concord?  How- 
many  the  Americans  ?  What  expedition  was  undertaken  shortly  after  the 
battle  of  Lexington  ? 


17*75.  WAR    OF   THE   REVOLUTION.  127 

thousand  men.  Every  exertion  was  made  to  secure  ammu- 
nition, arms,  and  fortifications  for  the  provincials.  Shortly 
after  this,  Colonel  Ethan  Allen*  of  Vermont,  and  Colonel 
Benedict  Arnold,t  of  Connecticut,  at  the  head  of  a  company 
of  volunteers,  marched  against  the  forts  at  Ticonderoga  and 
Crown  Point,  on  the  western  shore  of  Lake  Champlain, 
commanding  the  entrance  into  Canada. 

4.  On  the  night  of  the  10th  of  May,  1775,  Allen  arrived  at 
Ticonderoga,  and  with  83  men  pressed  his  way  into  the  fort 
while  the  garrison  were  alseep.  Three  huzzas  aroused 
them  from  their  slumbers.  Allen  rushed  to  the  apartments 
of  Capt.  De  Laplace,  and  with  a  drawn  sword  over  the  half 
awakened  commander,  demanded  a  surrender  of  the  fortress. 
"  By  what  authority  do  you  demand  it  ^"  inquired  the  as- 

4.  In  whose  name  did  Allen  demand  a  surrender  of  the  fort  ?  When  was 
Crown  Point  taken?     What  did  they  find  in  these  forts  ? 

*  Ethan  Allen  was  born  hi  Roxbury,  Litchfield  county,  Connecticut.  At  an  early 
age,  he  emigrated  to  Vermont,  aod  about  1770,  he  took  an  active  part  in  favor  of  the 
"Green  Mountain  Boys."  as  the  settlers  were  then  called,  in  opposition  to  the  gov- 
ernment of  New  York.'  When  called  to  take  the  field,  he  showed  himself  an  able 
leader  and  an  intrepid  soldier.  The  same  year  that  he  took  Ticonderoga,  he  was 
taken  prisoner  near  Montreal,  in  an  attempt  to  reduce  that  city.  He  was  now  placed 
in  irons  and  sent  to  England,  with  an  assurance,  that  he  would  meet  with  a  halter  on 
his  arrival  there.  He  was,  however,  after  a  few  months,  brought  back  to  Halifax  ; 
and  after  being  kept  there  five  months,  he  was  removed  to  New  York.  He  was 
kept  a  prisoner  here  one  year  and  a  half,  and  then  exchanged  for  Colonel  Campbell. 
While  a  prisoner  at  New  York,  as  he  was  standing  on  the  deck  one  day,  a  British 
officer  said  to  him,  "Allen,  if  you  will  quit  the  ^  rebel  service,'  and  join  us,  we  will 
make  you  an  officer  in  our  army,  and  give  you  all  the  land  you  can  see  off  there,  in 
New  Jersey."  "  You  make  me  think,"  said  Allen,  "  of  an  account  I  read  in  a  good 
old  book  that  I  have  at  home,  how  the  devil  once  promised  our  Saviour  all  the  king- 
doms of  the  earth,  if  he  would  fall  down  and  worship  him  ;  when  the  rascally  old 
knave  did  not  own  a  foot  of  land  in  all  creation."  He  returned  to  Vermont  in  1778, 
and  died  at  his  estate  in  Colchester,  in  1789. 

t  Benedict  Arnold,  at  the  commencement  of  the  war,  lived  in  New  Haven.  There 
is  some  doubt  as  regards  the  place  of  his  birth.  He  embraced  with  enthusiasm  the 
cause  of  the  colonies,  and,  on  account  of  his  daring  courage,  was  at  once  promoted 
to  office  in  the  provincial  army.  He  exhibited  great  skill  and  bravery  in  most  of  the 
battles  in  which  he  was  engaged.  In  his  marches  and  attacks,  he  usually  acted  on 
the  maxim,  "In  war.  expedition  is  equivalent  to  strength."  He  often  surprised  the 
enemy  by  the  boldness  of  his  plans,  and  the  rapidity  ofhis  movements.  His  daring 
courage  may  excite  our  admiration,  but  his  character  presents  little  to  be  commend- 
ed. He  was  vicious,  extravagant,  cruel,  vain,  fickle,  luxurious,  and  mean.  After  he 
had  turned  traitor  to  his  country,  and  joined  the  British,  he  committed  the  most 
enormous  barbarities.  On  a  certain  occasion,  he  said  to  an  American  captain  whom 
he  had  taken  prisoner,  "  What  do  you  suppose  the  Americans  would  do  with  me  if 
I  should  fall  into  their  hands  V  "  They  would  cut  olT  the  leg,"  replied  the  officer, 
that  was  woundea  while  you  were  fighting  the  battles  of  freedom,  and  bury  it  with 
the  honors  of  war,  and  then  hang  the  remainder  of  your  body  in  gibbets."  After  the 
close  of  the  war,  he  went  to  England,  and  received  30,000  pounds  sterling,  as  a  re- 
ward for  his  villany.    He  died  m  London,  in  1801,  detested  by  all  who  knew  him. 


128 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1115. 


ALLEN     DEMANDING     TH 


SURRENDER     OF     THE      FORT. 


tonished  Laplace.  "  I  demand  it,"  said  Allen,  "  in  the  name 
of  the  great  Jehovah,  and  of  the  Continental  Congress." 
This  smiimons  could  not  be  disobeyed.  It  was  too  high  au- 
thority to  be  disputed,  and  the  fort  was  at  once  surrendered. 
The  following  day,  Crown  Point  was  taken  without  resist- 
ance. In  these  two  forts  the  Americans  found  more  than  a 
hundred  pieces  of  cannon,  and  a  large  quantity  of  other  mil- 
itary stores. 

5.  The  noise  of  war  soon  alarmed  all  the  colonies. 
Many  had  not  expected  open  hostilities.  But  the  blow  was 
no  sooner  struck,  than  they  all  resolved  to  join  heart  and 
hand  with  New  England  in  the  desperate  struggle.  On  the 
10th  of  May,  the  Continental  Congress  again  assembled  at 
Philadelphia.  John  Hancock,  of  Massachusetts,  was  chosen 
president.  A  petition  was  sent  to  the  king,  and  an  address 
to  the  people  of  England.  Yet  vigorous  measures  were 
employed  to  sustain  the  war.  Articles  of  confederation  were 
adopted  under  the  title  of  the  united  colonies.     They  voted 


5.  When  did  congress  again  assemble  ?  Under  what  title  did  they  enter  into 
articles  of  confederation  ?  How  large  an  army  did  they  vote  to  raise  ?  Who 
was  appointed  commander-in-chief  of  the  American  forces  ? 


1775.  WAR    OF   THE   REVOLUTION.  129 

to  raise  an  army  of  20,000  men,  and  appointed  George 
Washington,  who  was  one  of  the  delegates  from  Virginia, 
commander-in-chief  of  the  American  forces.  He  soon  re- 
paired to  Cambridge,  and  took  command  of  the  army,  July 
3,  1775. 

6.  A  solemn  declaration,  showing  the  causes  and  neces- 
sity of  taking  up  arms,  was  prepared  by  congress,  to  be 
read  before  the  army  and  the  people  of  the  colonies,  closing 
as  follows  :  "  Our  cause  is  just,  our  union  is  perfect.  Our 
internal  resources  are  great,  and  if  necessary,  foreign  assist- 
ance undoubtedly  may  be  obtained.  With  hearts  fortified 
by  these  animating  reflections,  we  most  solemnly  declare, 
that  the  arms  we  have  been  compelled  by  our  enemies  to 
assume,  we  will,  in  defiance  of  every  hazard,  with  unabating 
firmness  and  perseverance,  employ  for  the  preservation  of  our 
liberties  ;  being  with  one  mind  resolved  to  die  freemen,  rather 
than  to  live  slaves."  For  the  purpose  of  defraying  the  ex- 
penses of  the  war,  congress  issued  bills  of  credit  to  the 
amount  of  three  million  dollars,  and  pledged  the  faith  of  the 
United  Colonies  for  their  redemption. 

7.  The  troops  of  New  England  were  already  in  arms,  and 
had  besieged  the  British  army  in  Boston.  The  heights  of 
Charlestown,  Breed's  hill,  and  Bunker  hill,  command  the 
city.  The  Americans  having  received  information  that  the 
enemy  intended  to  occupy  these  heights  and  advance  into 
the  country,  Col.  Prescoit  was  sent,  in  the  evening  of  the 
16th  of  June,  to  form  an  entrenchment  on  Bunker  hill.  Find- 
ing, on  his  arrival,  that  though  this  hill  was  the  most  com- 
manding position,  it  was  too  far  from  the  enemy  to  annoy 
their  shipping  and  army,  he  determined  to  fortify  Breed's 
hill,  which  is  nearer  the  city,  and  began  the  work  soon  after 
midnight.  By  dayUght  they  had  constructed  a  redout  eight 
rods  square,  in  which  they  could  shelter  themselves. 

8.  Early  in  the  morning,  the  British  discovered  with  as- 


6.  What  did  congress  prepare  to  be  read  to  the  army  and  people  ? 

7.  What  heights  command  the  city  of  Boston  ?  What  was  Col.  Prescott 
ordered  to  do  on  the  evening  of  the  16th  of  June  ?  Did  he  do  as  he  was 
ordered?     Why  not? 

8.  What  did  the  British  do  on  the  morning  of  the  17th  of  June  ?  Describe 
the  battle  of  Breed's  hill ;  or,  as  it  is  usually  called,  Bunker  hill. 


130 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


17Y5. 


tonishment  the  works  of  the  Americans,  and  immediately 
opened  upon  them  an  incessant  fire  from  the  ships  in  the 
harbor,  and  from  their  fortifications  on  the  Boston  side.  The 
roar  of  cannon  soon  alarmed  the  inhabitants  of  the  city  and 
adjacent  towns,  and  soon  the  steeples,  the  roofs  of  the  houses, 
and  all  the  surrounding  hills,  were  crowded  with  anxious 
spectators,  who  were  awaiting  with  deep  and  silent  emotion 
the  event  of  the  day.  The  Americans,  heedless  of  the  iron 
storm  that  rattled  around  them,  toiled  on  unceasingly,  and 
before  noon  had  nearly  completed  a  trench  to  the  Mystic 
river.  As  nothing  was  effected  by  the  cannon  of  the  Brit- 
ish, about  3,000  regular  soldiers,  under  Generals  Howe  and 
Pigot,  were  landed  at  Moreton's  Point,  and  arrayed  at  the 
foot  of  the  hill. 


BATTLE     OF     BUNK 


9.  These  advanced  to  the  charge  in  two  divisions,  re- 
solved to  carry  the  height  by  assault.     The  Americans, 

9.  What  did  General  Putnam  say  to  the  American  soldiers,  as  the  British 
were  advancing  to  the  first  attack?  Ans.  "  Boys,"  said  he,  "  keep  cool — keep 
cool;  don't  fire  a  gun  till  you  can  see  the  whites  of  their  eyes  ;  and  then  bore 
it  into  them."  Describe  the  first  assault.  Why  did  the  Americans  remain  in 
silence  and  reserve  their  fire  ?  Had  they  any  ammunition  to  waste  at  that 
time  ?    What  was  the  effect  of  the  fire  of  the  Americans  ? 


17*75.  .         WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  131 

prompted  by  the  boldness  and  zeal  of  General  Putnam  and 
other  brave  officers,  were  eager  for  the  combat.  But,  in 
obedience  to  their  orders,  they  waited  in  silence  the  advance 
of  the  enemy,  and  reserved  their  fire  till  they  were  within  a 
few  rods  of  the  breastwork,  and  then  poured  upon  them  a 
deluge  of  balls.  The  British  fell  by  hundreds ;  ranks  fell 
upon  ranks,  columns  were  broken,  and  the  whole  line  fled 
in  confusion  to  the  shore. 

10.  The  officers,  fearing  the  disgrace  of  a  defeat,  ralHed 
their  troops,  and  urged  them  on,  at  the  point  of  their  swords, 
to  a  second  attack.  In  the  mean  time  Charlestown  had 
been  set  on  fire  by  the  enemy,  and  six  hundred  houses  wrap- 
ped in  flames  added  an  awful  sublimity  to  the  scene.  Again 
the  columns  pressed  gallantly  forward,  hurrying  on  over 
their  dead  and  wounded  companions  who  had  fallen  in  the 
first  assault.  The  Americans  waited  their  approach  in 
silence,  and  then  received  them  with  the  same  deadly  fire 
of  musketry  as  before.  Whole  ranks  were  swept  away, 
the  line  was  broken,  and  again  they  fled  for  the  shore.  The 
sure  aim  of  the  provincials  cut  down  the  British  officers,  so 
that  General  Howe,  deserted  by  his  flying  troops,  was  now 
left  almost  alone  on  the  field. 

11.  At  this  moment,  General  Clinton,  who  was  watching 
the  progress  of  the  battle  from  Boston,  considering  the  honor 
of  the  British  nation  at  stake,  immediately  crossed  over  with 
reinforcements,  and  with  great  difficulty  led  up  the  troops 
to  a  third  charge.  The  provincials  met  them  again  with 
undiminished  courage ;  but  their  powder  being  exhausted, 
and  having  no  bayonets,  they  fought  with  the  butt  end  of 
their  muskets.     After  a  bloody  contest,  the  Americans  re- 


10.  Describe  the  second  assault.  Why  did  the  British  burn  Chariestown  ? 
Ans.  They  hoped  the  smoke  would  cover  the  heights,  and  thus  confuse  the 
Americans  and  prevent  their  deadly  aim,  and  aid  in  their  defeat.  But  the 
smoke  and  flame  at  first  ascended  perpendicularly,  then  inclined  to  the  south, 
leaving  the  battle-field  clear  and  unobscured. 

11.  Describe  the  third  assault.  What  distinguished  general  fell?  Gen- 
eral Joseph  Warren  was  a  physician  in  Boston.  He  was  early  distinguished 
as  one  of  the  most  vigilant  and  energetic  friends  of  American  rights.  He  was 
appointed  a  major-general  in  the  American  army,  four  days  previous  to  this 
battle  ;  but  in  order  to  encourage  the  soldiers,  he  joined  them  as  a  volunteer, 
and  fought  in  the  rank.s.     He  was  killed  in  the  thirty-fifth  year  of  his  age. 


132  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1775. 

treated  down  their  intrenchments,  and  although  exposed  to 
the  raking  fire  of  the  British  ships,  they  effected  their  escape 
over  Charlestown  neck  without  any  considerable  loss.  It 
was  during  this  retreat  that  the  brave  Gen.  Warren  was 
slain. 

12.  In  this  memorable  battle  the  English  lost,  out  of 
3,000,  more  than  1,000  men.  The  Americans  had  only 
1,500  in  the  contest,  and  their  loss  was  about  450.  Though 
they  were  defeated,  it  was  considered  a  glorious  defeat. 
They  had  met  England's  bravest  troops,  and  had  shown 
them  that  Americans  were  neither  "  cowardly  nor  feeble." 
Thousands  awaited  the  event  of  the  struggle  with  the  most 
painful  sohcitude. 

13.  Hostihties  had  also  commenced  in  the  southern  colo- 
nies. Lord  Dunmore,  governor  of  Virginia,  forcibly  seized 
a  quantity  of  military  stores  belonging  to  the  colony.  Pat- 
rick Henry,*  with  a  company  of  militia,  proceeded  against 
him,  and  demanded  the  stores,  or  their  value  in  money.  The 
money  was  immediately  paid.  To  strengthen  his  forces, 
Dunmore  basely  offered  freedom  to  all  slaves  who  would 
take  up  arms  against  their  masters,  and  join  the  royal  party. 
Not  long  after,  a  body  of  his  black  and  white  troops  assem- 
bled at  Yorktown,  and  attacked  the  colonists.  But  the 
royalists  were  soon  defeated,  and  Dunmore  was  obliged  to 

12.  What  was  the  loss  of  the  English  in  the  battle  of  Bunker  hill  ?  The 
loss  of  the  Americans  ? 

13.  What  did  Lord  Dunmore  do?  Who  was  John  Murray  Dunmore  ?  Ans. 
He  was  the  last  governor  of  Virginia  appointed  by  the  king.  In  his  zeal  to 
assist  the  English,  he  tried  to  injure  the  colony  by  all  the  means  in  his  power, 
and  acted  the  part  of  a  pirate  and  plunderer.  He  died  in  England  in  1809. 
Who  proceeded  against  him  ?     Did  they  get  the  stores  ? 

*  Patrick  Henry,  a  most  eloquent  orator,  was  born  in  Virginia,  in  1736.  He  was 
the  first  man  that  proposed  to  the  colonies  hostile  measures  against  Great  Britain. 
On  a  certain  occasion,  as  he  was  speaking  in  the  assembly  of  Virginia,  respecting 
the  oppressive  and  arbitrary  measures  of  the  British  government  toward  America, 
he  became  much  excited,  and  in  the  warmth  of  his  feelings  added,  "  Caesar  had  his 
Brutus,  Charles  the  First  his  Cromwell,  and  George  the  Third"—-"  Treason  !"  cried 
the  Speaker  —  "Treason!  treason!"  was  echoed  from  every  part  of  the  house. 
Henry  faltered  not  for  an  instant,  but  taking  a  loftier  attitude,  and  fixing  on  the 
Speaker  an  eye  of  fire,  he  finished  his  sentence  with  the  firmest  emphasis—"  may 
profit  by  their  exmnple.  If  this  be  treason,  make  the  most  of  it."  He  was  the  first 
governor  of  Virginia  after  the  declaration  of  independence,  and  a  member  of  the 
old  congress.  He  was  a  natural  orator  of  the  highest  order.  He  died  in  1799, 
^  aged  63. 


iV'Zo.  .  WAR    OF   THE   REVOLUTION.  133 

leave  the  city.     Soon  after,  he  ordered  Norfolk  to  be  set  on 
fire,  by  which  a  large  amount  of  property  was  destroyed. 

14.  Similar  scenes  occurred  in  the  Carolinas.  The  peo- 
ple of  South  Carohna,  being  in  want  of  ammunition,  twelve 
persons,  authorized  by  the  committee  of  supplies,  sailed  from 
Charleston,  and  captured  a  British  vessel  near  St.  Augustine, 
with  15,000  pounds  of  powder  on  board.  About  the  same 
time  the  people  of  Georgia,  who  had  now  joined  the  confed- 
eracy, seized  a  vessel  lately  arrived  from  London,  with  13,000 
pounds  of  powder,  and  other  stores.  The  same  year,  four 
other  vessels,  laden  with  military  stores  for  the  British  army, 
were  captured  by  Captain  Manly,  of  New  England.  These 
stores  were  of  vast  importance  to  the  Americans,  who  had 
not  then  the  means  of  manufacturing  extensively  the  muni- 
tions of  war.  Before  the  close  of  the  year,  congress  voted 
to  build  immediately  thirteen  ships  of  war.  Thus  was  com- 
menced the  American  navy. 

15.  The  colonists  soon  turned  their  attention  to  Canada. 
The  people  of  that  province  were  mostly  of  French  origin, 
and  though  they  had  been  earnestly  solicited  by  congress, 
they  had  not  taken  any  part  in  the  opposition  against  the 
British  government.  Fearing  an  invasion  from  that  quar- 
ter under  Sir  Guy  Carlton,  the  governor  of  that  province, 
two  expeditions  were  planned ;  one  by  the  way  of  Lake 
Champlain,  under  the  command  of  Gen.  Schuyler,  aided  by 
Generals  Montgomery  *  and  Wooster ;  the  other  by  the  way 
of  the  Kennebec  river,  under  the  command  of  Gen.  Arnold. 
In  consequence  of  illness,  Gen.  Schuyler  was  prevented  from 
going  to  Canada,  and  the  whole  command  of  the  expedition 
devolved  on  Montgomery. 

14.  By  whom  was  a  British  vessel  taken  near  St.  Augustine  ?  How  much 
powder  was  there  on  board  ?  What  did  the  Georgians  do  ?  How  many  ves- 
sels were  taken  during  the  year  ? 

15.  To  what  did  the  colonists  soon  turn  their  attention  ?  Who  was  sent 
■with  an  army  to  Canada? 

'  Richard  Montgomery,  a  major-general  in  the  army  of  the  United  States,  was 
born  In  the  north  of  Ireland,  in  1737.  He  served  under  Wolfe  at  Quebec,  in  1759 ; 
but  on  his  return  to  England,  he  left  his  regiment  and  removed  to  America,  and 
settled  in  the  colony  of  New  York.  His  military  talents  were  great.  His  measures 
were  taken  with  judgment,  and  executed  with  ability.  His  death  was  deplored  by 
friends  and  foes. 

12 


134  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*7 75. 

16.  He  passed  up  Lake  Champlain,  and  on  the  10th  of 
September  reached  St.  John's,  the  first  British  post  in  Can- 
ada. A  small  detachment  was  sent  against  Fort  Cham- 
blee,  a  few  miles  above,  which  defeated  the  garrison,  and 
took  possession  of  a  large  quantity  of  powder,  and  other 
stores  found  in  the  fort.  St.  John's  was  also  surrendered 
shortly  after.  On  the  12th  of  November,  Montgomery 
marched  against  Montreal,  which  immediately  submitted. 
(Quebec  was  now  the  only  remaining  stronghold  in  Canada. 

17.  Montgomery  hastened  forward,  and  on  the  1st  of 
December  arrived  at  Point-aux-Trembles,  twenty  miles  above 
duebec,  where  he  found  Arnold  awaiting  his  arrival.  Arn- 
old's march  through  the  wilderness,  at  the  head  of  more 
than  a  thousand  men,  was  one  of  the  most  difficult  and 
hazardous  exploits  in  the  annals  of  war.  He  ascended  the 
Kennebec,  crossed  the  mountains,  and  descended  the  Chau- 
diere,  and  arrived  at  Point  Levi,  opposite  Gluebec,  November 
9th.  Such  was  the  consternation  of  the  inhabitants,  that, 
could  he  have  crossed  the  St.  Lawrence  without  delay,  he 
might  probably  have  taken  immediate  possession  of  the 
city. 

18.  On  the  13th,  he  was  enabled  to  procure  about  forty 
birch-bark  canoes.  With  these  he  crossed  the  St.  Lawrence 
in  the  night,  and  boldly  led  his  troops  up  the  Heights  of 
Abraham,  where  the  gallant  Wolfe  ascended,  sixteen  years 
before,  to  the  field  of  his  fame  and  his  grave.  Finding  the 
garrison  ready  to  receive  him,  and  not  being  strong  enough 
to  carry  the  place  by  assault,  he  withdrew  his  troops  to 
Point-aux-Trembles,  and  awaited  the  arrival  of  Montgom- 
ery. On  the  arrival  of  the  latter,  their  united  forces  were 
not  more  than  a  thousand  men.  They  immediately  march- 
ed to  Gluebec  and  began  the  seige,  which  continued  for 
nearly  a  month  without  any  prospect  of  success. 

19.  They  now  resolved  upon  a  desperate  assault.  To 
conceal  their  real  design,  two  divisions  were  sent  to  alarm. 


16.  Where  did  he  land?    What  was  the  result?    What  other  fort  was 
taken  ?     What  was  found  in  the  fort  ?     What  city  did  he  take  ? 

17.  Who  was  sent  to  assist  Montgomery  in  taking  Quebec  ? 

18.  Describe  their  attempts  to  take  the  city. 

19.  Describe  the  death  of  Montgomery. 


1775.  .  WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  135 

the  upper  town,  while  Arnold  and  Montgomery  commenced 
a  violent  attack  upon  the  opposite  sides  of  the  lower  town. 
Before  light  on  the  morning-  of  December  31st,  the  signal 
was  given,  and  the  troops  rushed  forward  to  the  charge, 
amid  a  violent  snow-storm,  which  concealed  them  from  the 
sight  of  the  enemy.  The  guard  of  the  first  barrier  fled,  and 
while  Montgomery  was  forcing  his  way  over  piles  of  ice 
and  a  picket  fence,  one  of  the  guard  ran  back,  and  seizing 
a  match,  discharged  a  cannon,  and  killed  Montgomery  and 
two  other  valuable  oflScers.     The  troops  at  once  retreated. 

20.  On  the  other  side  of  the  town  the  battle  was  more 
furious.  Arnold  was  wounded  in  the  leg  on  the  first  assault. 
But  his  troops  under  Captain  Morgan  pressed  on  beyond  the 
first  barrier,  scaled  the  battery,  and  made  the  guard  prison- 
ers. Bewildered  amid  the  darkness  and  snow,  they  rested 
until  hght,  when  they  advanced  against  the  second  barrier. 
While  attempting  to  scale  the  barricade,  they  were  repulsed 
with  great  slaughter  by  the  incessant  fire  of  the  British  gar- 
rison. Benumbed  with  cold,  and  unable  to  retreat,  some 
were  obliged  to  surrender. 

21.  Not  less  than  400  men  were  lost  in  this  engagement. 
The  death  of  Montgomery  was  universally  lamented.  The 
most  powerful  speakers  in  the  British  parliament  displayed 
their  eloquence  in  praising  his  virtues,  and  lamenting  his 
fall.  Arnold,  with  the  remainder  of  the  army,  retired  three 
miles  below  Gluebec,  and  continued  the  blockade  during  the 
winter.  Thus  far  the  Americans  had  experienced  terrible 
hardships.  During  the  siege,  the  small-pox  broke  out  in  the 
camp.  Many  were  very  poorly  clad  for  a  severe  winter. 
Far  from  their  affectionate  families,  amid  sickness,  want, 
and  cold,  the  soldiers  sighed  for  the  comforts  of  the  domestic 
fireside.  But  their  love  of  liberty  carried  them  through  the 
struggle. 

22.  As  soon  as  the  condition  of  the  northern  army  was 

20.  Describe  the  battle  on  the  other  side  of  the  town.  Where  was  Arnold 
■wounded  ?     What  was  the  result  of  the  battle  ? 

21.  How  many  were  lost  ?  What  did  Arnold  do  ?  What  was  the  situation 
of  his  soldiers  ? 

22.  What  did  congress  do?  What  force  had  the  British  at  Quebec  in  May, 
1776  ?     Who  succeeded  Montgomery  ? 


136  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1776. 

known  to  congress,  large  supplies  and  additional  forces  were 
ordered  on  to  Uuebec.  But  early  in  the  spring  of  1776,  the 
British  army  was  greatly  strengthened  by  a  reinforcement 
from  England.  In  May,  the  whole  force  at  Quebec  was 
estimated  to  be  13,000  men.  General  Thomas,  who  had 
been  appointed  to  succeed  Montgomery,  arrived  on  the  first 
of  May.  But  he  found  himself  at  the  head  of  less  than 
2,000  men,  more  than  half  of  whom  were  sick,  or  unfit  for 
duty. 

23.  He  was  attacked  soon  after,  and  the  sick  and  stores 
of  his  camp  were  taken  by  the  English.  The  sick,  how- 
ever, were  kindly  treated,  and  when  they  recovered,  were 
released.  The  Americans  now  retreated  on  their  way  to 
New  York.  General  Thomas  was  seized  with  the  small- 
pox and  died ;  and  General  Sullivan  succeeded  to  the  com- 
mand. About  this  time,  at  a  place  called  the  Cedars^  forty 
miles  above  Montreal,  a  detachment  of  American  troops  was 
attacked  by  a  party  of  the  enemy,  mostly  Indians.  Owing 
to  the  cowardice  or  bad  management  of  Colonel  Bedell  and 
Major  Butterfield,  about  500  of  the  troops  were  lost.  By 
the  I8th  of  June,  1776,  Canada  was  entirely  deserted  by  the 
Americans. 

24.  General  Washington,  soon  after  his  appointment  to 
the  command  of  the  army,  repaired  to  Cambridge,  Mass. 
He  arrived  there  July  2d,  and  took  command  the  next  day. 
He  found  the  troops,  about  14,000,  posted  on  the  heights 
around  Boston,  almost  destitute  of  means  necessary  for  a 
vigorous  siege,  and  very  poorly  supplied  with  clothing  and 
provisions.  His  first  object  was  to  render  the  army  com- 
fortable, and  furnish  a  good  supply  of  arms  and  ammunition. 
But  notwithstanding  his  constant  exertions,  night  and  day 
for  several  months,  he  was  not  able  to  procure  the  necessary 
supplies. 

25.  But  there  was  another  more  serious  difficulty  which 

23.  With  what  did  General  Thomas  die?  Who  succeeded  him?  What 
happened  at  the  Cedars  I     When  was  Canada  deserted  by  tiie  Americans  ? 

24.  What  is  said  of  General  Washington  ?  In  what  condition  did  he  find 
the  army  ?  What  was  his  first  object  ?  What  difficulties  had  he  to  contend 
with  ? 

25.  What  was  his  regular  force  ? 


1776.  .  WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  137 

he  had  to  contend  with.  Many  of  the  American  soldiers 
had  enhsted  only  for  a  short  time,  and  when  their  time  ex- 
pired, left  the  service.  A  new  army  was  then  to  be  formed. 
Against  these  and  many  other  discom'agements,  he  con- 
tended till  spring,  without  an  attack  upon  the  city.  His 
regular  force  now  amounted  to  14,000  men,  besides  6,000 
militia  of  Massachusetts.  Washington  had  several  times 
proposed  to  a  council  of  war,  an  assault  upon  the  enemy. 
But  his  plans  were  rejected. 

26.  About  the  first  of  March,  he  commenced  a  severe 
cannonade  upon  the  city.     On  the  night  of  the  4th,  a  de- 


tachment took  possession  of  Dorchester  heights,  and  before 
morning  threw  up  a  line  of  fortifications  which  threatened 
both  the  town  and  the  enemy's  ships  in  the  harbor.'  The 
British  beheld  with  amazement  these  extensive  works,  which 
had  sprung  up  in  a  single  night.  Three  thousand  troops 
were  immediately  ordered  to  embark  against  them.  But  a 
violent  storm  prevented  the  boats  from  proceeding.     Howe, 

26.  What  were  his  first  attempts  to  drive  the  enemy  out  of  the  city  ?  What 
was  done  on  the  4th  of  March  ?  How  did  this  affect  the  British  ?  What  was 
the  result  ? 

12* 


138  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED   STATES.  Ill6. 

the  British  general,  now  found  it  necessary  to  leave  the  city 
without  delay. 

27.  On  the  17th  of  March,  General  Howe,  with  the  whole 
British  army,  in  78  ships  and  transports,  set  sail  for  Halifax, 
and  Washington,  with  his  army,  entered  Boston  in  triumph. 
This  event  produced  a  thrill  of  joy  throughout  the  country. 
Congress  passed  a  vote  of  thanks  to  Washington  and  his 
troops.  Suspecting  that  the  enemy  had  repaired  to  New 
York,  the  army  left  Boston  for  that  city. 

28.  The  next  important  event  was  an  attack  upon  Charles- 
ton, South  Carolina,  June  28th,  by  a  British  fleet,  under  Sir 
Peter  Parker.  As  the  fleet  was  attempting  to  pass  the  fort 
on  Sullivan's  island,  the  garrison,  under  the  command  of 
Colonel  Moultrie,  opened  a  terrible  Are  upon  it.  After  a  hot 
engagement  of  ten  hours,  in  which  the  ships  were  severely 
shattered,  the  British  left  the  harbor.  They  lost  more  than 
200  men,  while  the  loss  of  the  Americans  was  only  thirty- 
two.  In  honor  of  the  commander  of  the  fort,  it  was  after- 
ward called  Fort  Moultrie. 

29.  The  thirteen  colonies  were  now  all  in  arms  against 
the  mother  country-.  Hitherto  they  had  contended  only  for 
their  just  rights,  as  loyal  subjects  of  Great  Britain.  But 
now  they  were  forced  to  contend,  as  independent  states, 
against  a  foreign  foe.  A  motion  for  declaring  their  inde- 
pendence was  therefore  made  in  congress,  by  Richard 
Henry  Lee,*  of  Virginia,  June  7,  1776.  After  a  full  discus- 
sion, and  some  warm  opposition,  it  was  carried  by  a  unan- 
imous vote.  A  Declaration  of  iNDEPENDENcEf  was  drawn 
up,  adopted,  signed  by  all  the  members  of  congress,  and 
published  to  the  world  on  the  4th  of  July,  1776.  It  was 
received  in  all  the  colonies  with  joy  and  public  celebration. 
The  nation  now  assumed  the  title  of  the  United  States  of 
America. 

•  Richard  Henry  Lee  was  born  in  1732.  From  his  earliest  youth,  he  devoted  his 
talents  to  the  service  of  his  country.  He  supported  through  life  the  character  of  a 
philosopher,  a  patriot,  and  sage  ;  and  his  name  will  be  remembered  with  gratitude, 
as  one  of  the  most  conspicuous  actors  of  the  Revolution,  so  long  as  Americans  enjoy 
the  blessings  resulting  li-om  that  event.    He  died  at  Chautilly,  in  Virginia,  1794. 

t  On  the  11th  of  June,  a  committee  was  appointed  to  prepare  a  Declaration  of  In- 
dependence, consisting  of  Thomas  .lefferso'n,  John  Adams,  Benjamin  Franklin, 
Roger  Sherman,  and  Robert  R.  Livingston.  Mr.  Jetfersoa  was  requested  to  draw 
up  the  paper,  which  he  did,  and  it  was  reported  to  the  house  after  receiving  a  few 
alteratious  from  Dr.  Fraukliu  and  Mr.  Adams. 


1776. 


WAR    OF   THE    REVOLUTION. 


139 


ONJcn.  S     OF     THE     DKCLARATION     OF     INDKl'ENDKNCB. 


New  irampslnre. 
JOSIAII  BARTLKTT, 
WILLIAM    Wmi'lT-K, 
MA.TTaEW  THORNTON. 

Massarhusetta  Bay. 
JOHN  HANCOCK, 
SAMUEL  ADAMS, 
JOHN  ADAMS, 
HOIiKRT  TRKAT  PAINE, 
ELBRIDGK  GKRRY. 

Rhode  Island,  8fc. 
STKPHEN  HOPKINS, 
WILLIAM  KLLERY. 

Connecticut. 
ROGER  SHERMAN, 
SAMUEL  HUNTINGTON, 
WILLIAM  WILLIAMS, 
OLIVER  WOLCOTT. 

New  York. 
WILLIAM  FLOYD, 
PHILIP  LIVIN(;STON, 
FRANCIS  LEWIS, 
LEWIS  MORRIS. 

New  Jertey. 
RICHARD  STOCKTON. 
JOHN  WITHERSPOON, 
FRANCIS  HOPKINSON, 
JOHN  HART, 
ABRAHAM  CLARK. 

Pennsylvania. 
ROBERT  MORRIS, 
BENJAMIN  RUSH, 
BENJAMIN  FRANKLIN, 
Jf)HN   MORTON, 
GEORGE  CLYMER, 


JAMES  SMITH, 
(iEORGK  TAYLOR, 
JAMES  WILSON, 
GEORGE  ROSS. 

Delaware, 
CESAR  RODNEY, 
GEORGE  READ, 
THOMAS  M'KEAN. 

Maryland. 
SAMUEL  CHASE, 
WILLIAM  PACAj 
THOMAS  STONE, 
CHARLES  CARROLL. 

yirginia. 
GEORGE  WYTHE, 
RICHARD  HENRY  LEE, 
THOMAS  JEFFERSON, 
BENJAMIN  HARRISON, 
THOMAS  NELSON,  Jr., 
FRANCIS  LIGHTFOOT  LEE, 
CARTER  BRAXTON. 

North  Carolina, 
WILLIAM  HOOPER, 
JOSEini  HEWES, 
JOHN  PENN. 

South  Carolina. 
EDWARD  RUTLEDGE, 
THOMAS  HEYWARD,  Jr., 
THOMAS  LYNCH,  Jr., 
ARTHUR  MIDDLETON. 

Georgia, 
BUTTON  GWINNETT, 
LYMAN  HALL, 
GEORGE  WALTON. 


The  pen  with  which  these  signatures  were  made,  is  now  in  the  cabinet  of  tho 
Massachusetts  Historical  Society. 


HISTORY 


THE  UNITED  STATES. 


' .  fi^-'*-- 


PERIOD  III. 

Comprises  thb  events  that  occurred  from  the  Declaration  of  Indbpbn- 

dencb,  to  the  adoption  of  the  federal  constitution,  or  present 

system  of  government,  1789. 

1.  At  the  commencement  of  this  period,  the  condition  of 
the  country  was  in  the  highest  degree  interesting.  The 
progress  of  improvement  had  changed  the  forest  and  the 
glen  into  fmitful  tields,  and  flourishing  towns  had  sprung  up 

"VMiat  events  does  period  third  embrace? 

1.  What  was  the  condition  of  the  country  at  this  time  T  What  was  the  pop- 
ulation ?    What  was  the  effect  of  the  Declaration  ? 


17*76.  WAU    OF    THE    KEVOLUTION.  141 

on  cvory  side.  The  white  population  had  increased  to  about 
three  millions.  The  luxury  and  wealth  of  the  old  world 
were  fust  becoming  the  pf)rtion  of  the  new.  But  a  spirit  of 
freedom  and  bold  enterprise  characterized  the  whole  people. 
The  JJeclanWion  of  Independence^  while  it  frightened  the  cau- 
tious and  timid,  nerved  all  true  patriots  with  an  energy  of 
purpose,  which  alone  prepared  them  for  the  desperate  conflict. 
The  attitude  of  the  nation  excited  the  admiration  of  all 
Europe.  For  a  feeble  colony  just  struggling  into  existence, 
without  ships,  without  a  regular  army,  w'ithout  munitions  of 
war,  to  enter  into  open  combat  with  the  most  powerful  na- 
tion on  the  globe,  was  an  anomaly  in  the  history  of  the  world  ; 
and  the  friends  of  liberty  every  where  watched  with  deep 
anxiety  the  progress  of  the  unequal  contest. 

2.  Soon  after  the  British  troops  left  Boston,  Washington, 
believing  they  would  endeavor  to  get  possession  of  New 
York,  repaired  thither  with  the  principal  part  of  his  army, 
and  exerted  every  means  in  his  power  for  its  defense.  On 
the  28th  of  June,  Gen.  William  Howe,  with  the  army  which 
had  evacuated  Boston,  arrived  from  Halifax  off  Sandy  Hook. 
On  the  2d  of  July,  he  took  possession  of  Staten  Island. 
Being  soon  after  joined  by  his  brother.  Admiral  Howe  from 
England,  and  by  the  forces  under  Chnton  and  Cornwallis 
from  the  south,  he  found  himself  at  the  head  of  an  army  of 
24,000  of  the  best  troops  in  Europe.  The  American  army 
was  in  a  very  bad  state  to  meet  such  a  force.  It  consisted 
of  about  27,000  men,  chiefly  undisciplined  militia.     About 

'one-fourth  of  these  were  invalids,  and  another  fourth  very 
poorly  provided  with  arms. 

3.  On  the  22d  of  August,  the  British  landed  without  op- 
position on  Long  Island,  near  the  Narrows.  It  was  then  seen 
that  they  designed  to  approach  the  city  across  the  island. 
Washington  anticipating  this,  had  previously  posted  a  body 
of  about  5,000  troops  at  Brooklyn,  under  Generals  Putnam, 


2.  What  took  place  about  the  first  of  July?  State  of  the  American  army? 
Their  mirriber?  What  did  General  Washington  do?  Where  is  Brooklyn? 
Ants.  Opposite  to  New  York  city,  across  the  East  river,  three  quarters  of  a 
mile  distant.     Where  was  Washington  at  this  time? 

3.  State  wliat  the  British  did.  The  result?  Suppose  Clinton  had  not 
passed  the  eastern  defile,  what  then  ? 


142  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  l7Y6. 

Sullivan,  and  Sterling.  This  position  was  secured  by  a 
chain  of  intrenchments  and  redouts  from  Wallabout  Bay  to 
Gowannus  Cove.  Between  Brooklyn  and  the  place  where 
the  British  landed  was  a  range  of  hills,  called  '•  The  heights 
of  Gowannus,"  covered  with  thick  woods  and  crossed  by 
three  roads,  or  passes.  It  was  important  that  these  passes 
should  have  been  thoroughly  guarded.  Yet,  Gen.  Clinton, 
on  the  morning  of  the  27th,  led  the  right  wing  of  the  British 
army  through  the  most  eastern  of  these,  without  resistance, 
and  gained  the  rear  of  the  Americans.  The  action  now  com- 
menced, and  soon  became  general ;  but  the  Americans  being 
placed  between  two  fires,  there  was  no  safety  but  in  retreat. 
An  awful  scene  of  butcher3^  took  place.  Some  escaped  to 
the  woods,  others  broke  through  the  ranks  of  the  enemy  and 
Regained  the  American  lines  at  Brooklyn  ;  but  most  of  them 
were  either  killed  or  taken  prisoners.  This  was  the  most 
bloody  and  disastrous  defeat  of  the  whole  war.  The  battle 
was  fought  against  the  advice  and  wish  of  Washington,  and 
but  for  his  great  skill  and  energ}^,  the  whole  army  would 
have  been  lost.  In  the  heat  of  the  action,  he  passed  over 
from  New  York  to  Brooklyn,  and  beheld  with  inexpressible 
anguish  the  destruction  of  his  best  troops  ;  but  he  was  unable 
to  relieve  them. 

4.  About  2,000  of  the  Americans  were  killed,  wounded,  or 
taken  prisoners.  The  loss  of  the  British  was  about  400. 
The  English  advanced,  and  began  to  fortify  themselves  near 
the  American  hues,  and  resolved  on  a  more  decisive  battle 
the  next  day.  But  in  the  night,  Washington,  knowing  his 
men  were  fatigued  and  dispirited  by  the  defeat,  withdrew 
with  his  army,  unperceived  by  the  enemy,  across  the  river  to 
New  York.  The  militia  were  disheartened,  and  some  regi- 
ments, fearing  that  the  British  would  cross  the  East  river, 
deserted  and  returned  to  their  homes.  Washington,  wishing 
to  avoid  a  regular  battle  with  the  enemy,  on  the  12th  of 
Sept.  retired  with  his  whole  army  to  the  heights  of  Harlem, 
nine  miles  north  of  the  city.* 

4.  Wliat  did  Washington  do  that  nisiht  ? 


*  Nathan  Halb.— After  the  famous  retreat  of  the  American  army  from  Long 
Island,  Washington,  anxious  to  adopt  some  means  of  gaining  information  concern- 


1776.  ,        WAR    OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  143 

5.  General  Howe  entered  New  York  on  the  15th  of  Sep- 
tember, and  soon  after,  marched  up  along  the  East  river,  and 
encamped  his  troops  north  of  the  Americans,  in  order  to  cut 
off  all  communication  with  New  England.  Washington, 
perceiving  this  movement,  left  a  strong  garrison  at  Fort 
Washington  in  the  northern  part  of  New  York  island,  and 
marched  as  far  as  White  Plains.  Here  the  armies  met  on 
the  28th  of  October,  and  after  a  short  engagement,  the  Amer- 
icans were  forced  to  retreat.  About  300  men  were  lost  on 
each  side. 

6.  The  British  general  now^  returned  to  New  York.  His 
design  was  first  to  take  Fort  Washington,  and  then  cross  the 
Hudson  and  attack  Fort  Lee,  which  prevented  the  British 
fleet  from  passing  up  the  river.  On  the  16th  of  November, 
Fort  Washington  was  furiously  assailed  at  four  different 
points.  The  garrison  made  a  brave  defense,  and  mowed 
down  the  Hessians  with  terrible  slaughter.  At  length,  how- 
ever, their  ammunition  began  to  fail,  and  they  were  obliged 


5.  When  did  General  Howe  enter  New  York  ?     What  took  place  on  the 
28th  of  October  ? 

6.  What  on  the  IGth  of  November? 

ing  the  strength,  situation,  and  future  movements  of  the  enemy,  applied  to  Colonel 
Knowlron,  for  a  discreet,  intelligent,  enterprising,  and  bold  officer,  who  would  daro 
penetrate  tbe  enemy's  c;imj),  and  bring  him  the  desired  information.  Knowlton  at 
once  fixed  upon  Capt.  Nathan  Hale,  as  posses.sirig  the  nece&sary  qualificationsin  aa 
cmiiifTit  degree.  Accordingly  he  made  known  the  wishes  of  Washington  to  him, 
but  Hale  slirunk  with  instinctive  horror  at  the  thought  of  being  a  spy.  But  reflecting 
that  it  was  Washington  who  required  this  service,  and  his  country  that  was  to  be 
benefited,  he  gave  up  all  scruples,  and  prepared  for  the  adventure.  He  passed  ia 
disguise  to  Long  Island,  in  the  character  of  a  schoolmaster,  examined  every  fort  of  the 
Briti.-^h  army,  and  obtained  all  the  requisite  information.  As  he  was  returning,  he 
was  met  by  a  tory  in  the  British  service,  recognized,  apprehended,  and  taken  before 
Sir  William  Howe.  Hale  finding  every  thing  was  known  to  the  enemy,  boldly,  and 
without  eijuivocation,  confessed  his  character  and  his  object.  Howe,  without  a  trial, 
or  without  even  the  fbrm  of  a  court-martial,  doomed  him  for  execution  the  next 
morning !  This  sentence  was  executed  in  the  most  unfeeling  manner.  He  was  de- 
nied a  Uible,  and  even  the  attendance  of  a  clergyman  was  refused  him.  The  letters, 
full  of  fortitude  and  resignation,  which  he  wrote  to  his  mother  and  sister,  a  short 
time  before  his  death,  were  destroyed.  He  was  hung,  rejg^retting  "  that  he  had  only 
one  life  to  lose  in  the  cause  of  his  country,  the  cause  oi  liberty,  and  the  rights  of 
man."  The  untimely  end  of  this  promising,  but  unfortunate  young  man,  resembled 
that  of  Major  Andre,  in  the  circumstances  which  led  to  it ;  but  the  celebrity  of  the 
two  has  been  widely  different.  The  memory  of  Andre  has  received  every  honor, 
not  only  in  his  own  country,  but  likewise  in  this.  His  monument  stands  in  West- 
minster Abbey,  among  those  of  sages  and  heroes;  while  the  memory  of  Hale 
hardly  survives  in  his  native  state.  His  grave  is  not  even  marked  by  a  stone,  or  an 
inscription.  It  is  with  pleasure,  however,  that  I  add,  that  our  general  government 
are  about  (1836)  to  erect  a  suitable  monument  to  his  memory  in  the  public  burial 
place,  in  Coventry,  Connecticut,  his  native  town. 


144  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1V76. 

to  make  an  honorable  surrender.  The  American  loss  was 
about  fifty  killed  and  2,818  prisoners.  The  British  lost 
about  1,000  men. 

7.  The  loss  of  this  fort  was  severely  felt  by  the  Ameri- 
cans. The  garrison  at  Fort  Lee  immediately  abandoned 
their  post  and  joined  the  detachment  under  Washington, 
which  was  now  at  Newark  in  New  Jersey.  The  troops 
were  at  that  time  in  a  most  pitiable  condition.  They  were 
without  tents,  without  blankets,  poorly  clad,  and  exposed  to 
the  cold  blasts  of  winter.  In  this  wretched  state  they  were 
driven  by  the  close  pursuit  of  the  enemy  from  Newark  to 
Brunswick,  from  thence  to  Princeton,  and  finally  across  the 
Delaware. 

8.  At  that  time  Washington  had  not  more  than  3,000 
men  with  him,  and  this  number  was  daily  decreasing.  Such 
were  the  sufferings  of  the  troops,  that  as  soon  as  their  term  :• 
of  service  expired,  they  returned  to  their  comfortable  homes./^ 
A  dark  cloud  now  seemed  to  be  cast  over  all  the  bright 
hopes  of  the  Americans.  Pardon  was  offered  by  the  British 
general  to  all  who  would  join  the  royal  standard.  Many, 
despairing  of  success,  deserted  the  cause  of  Liberty  and 
accepted  the  pardon,  among  whom  were  Mr.  Galloway 
and  Mr.  Allen,  who  had  been  members  of  the  continental 
congress. 

9.  The  city  of  Philadelphia  being  in  danger  from  the 
enemy,  congress  adjourned,  Dec.  12th,  to  Baltimore.  They 
now  gave  to  Washington  "  entire  control  of  the  operations 
of  war."  To  strengthen  his  exhausted  army,  he  sent  orders 
to  General  Lee,  to  leave  his  post  on  the  Hudson,  and  come  ^ 
to  his  assistance  without  delay.  Lee  left  the  Hudson,  but' 
did  not  hasteii  his  march.  One  night  he  carelessly  took 
quarters  at  a  house,  three  miles  from  his  army,  where  he 
was  seized  by  a  corps  of  British  cavalry.     Li  consequence 

7.  What  did  the  garrison  of  Fort  Lee  do  ? 

8.  What  was  the  condition  of  oar  army  at  that  time  ?  What  was  offered  by 
the  British  general  ? 

9.  To  what  place  did  congress  adjourn  ?     Why  ?     What  power  did  they 
confer  upon  Washington  ?     What  did  he  do  ?     State  the  capture  of  General 
Lee.     Do  you  suppose  Lee  wished  to  be  taken  ?    Who  succeeded  Lee  ?  , 
What  did  General  Sullivan  do  ? 


1116. 


WAR    OF   THE    REVOLUTION. 


145 


of  this,  the  command  fell  upon  General  Sullivan,*  who 
marched  the  troops  directly  to  the  camp  of  Washington,  in- 
creasing- his  army  to  about  7,000  men. 

10.  The  British  general,  instead  of  crossing  the  Dela- 
ware, scattered  his  forces  in  several  towns  on  the  Jersey 
side,  for  winter  quarters.  Washington,  knowing  the  situa- 
tion of  the  enemy,  determined,  if  possible,  to  strike  a  blow  in 
favor  of  his  sinking  cause.     On  the  night  of  the  25th  of 


WASHINGTON     CROSSING     THE     DELAWARK. 

December,  he  crossed  the  Delaware  nine  miles  above  Tren- 
ton, with  about  2,500  men,  and  marched  down  upon  that 
place,  where,  the  next  morning,  he  attacked  the  enemy, 
killed  about  twenty,  and  took  about  1,000  prisoners.  Six 
field-pieces  and  a  thousand  stand  of  arms,  were  also  taken. 

10.  What  did  the  British  general  do  ?     What  did  Washington  do  on  the 
night  of  the  25lh  of  December  ?     The  26th  ? 


*  John  Sullivan  was  born  in  1741.  For  some  time  previous  to  the  revolutionary- 
war,  he  practised  law  in  New  Hampshire.  In  1776,  he  was  appointed  a  major-gen- 
eral in  the  American  army.  He  was  in  many  engagements,  and  conducted  several 
hazardous  expeditions,  and  ever  displayed  great  military  skill,  firmness,  and  reso- 
lution. After  the  close  of  the  war,  he  resumed  the  practice  of  law  ;  was  afterward 
a  member  of  congress ;  and  in  1786,  '87,  and  '89,  president  of  New  Hampshire.  He 
died  at  Durham  in  1795. 

13 


146  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*7 7 7. 

Of  his  own  men  two  were  killed,  two  frozen  to  death,  and 
several  wounded.  He  immediately  re-crossed  the  river. 
This  was  the  state  of  affairs  at  the  close  of  the  year  1776. 


EVENTS  OF  1777. 


1,  This  last  bold  movement  of  Washington  alarmed  the 
British.  Lord  CornwaUis  collected  his  forces  at  Princeton, 
and  watched  the  motions  of  his  vigilant  foe.  The  Amer- 
ican general,  having  received  some  fresh  recruits  from  Penn- 
sylvania, crossed  the  Delaware  again,  about  the  first  of 
January,  and  stationed  his  army  at  Trenton.  The  British 
forces  soon  marched  with  high  hopes  against  him.  Wash- 
ington arrayed  his  army  on  the  side  of  a  small  stream 
which  divides  the  town,  and  strongly  guarded  all  the  fords 
and  bridges. 

2.  CornwaUis  marched  up  his  troops,  and  commenced  a 
cannonade  upon  the  Americans,  and  attempted,  without  suc- 
cess, to  cross  the  river.  Washington,  knowing  the  superior 
force  of  the  enemy,  and  that  a  defeat  would  probably  decide 
the  fate  of  the  war,  conceived  another  daring,  but  successful 
exploit.  As  soon  as  it  was  dark,  the  fires  of  the  camp  were 
lighted  up  as  usual.  But  when  all  was  quiet,  Washington 
moved  off  his  army  unperceived,  and  next  morning,  January 
3d,  attacked  the  enemy  at  Princeton.  The  contest  was 
warm,  but  soon  decided  in  favor  of  the  Americans.  Of  the 
British,  100  men  were  killed  and  300  taken  prisoners.  The 
loss  of  the  Americans  was  100.  Among  the  slain  was  the 
lamented  General  Mercer,  and  among  the  wounded  was 
Lieutenant  James  Monroe,*  since  President  of  the  United 
States. 

1.  What  did  CornwaUis  do  ?  When  did  Washington  again  cross  the  Del- 
aware ? 

2.  Describe  the  movements  of  the  armies.  The  retreat  of  Washington. 
What  did  Washington  do,  January  3d,  1777  ?     The  result  ? 

*  James  Monroe  was  born  in  Westmoreland  county,  Virginia,  on  the  28th  day  of 
April,  1758.  He  joined  the  ranks  of  the  army  in  1776,  and  was  engaged  in  several 
of  the  principal  battles  of  the  Revolution,  among  which  were  those  of  the  Brandy- 
wine,  Trenton,  and  Monmouth.    In  1780,  at  the  request  of  Mr.  Jefferson,  then  gov- 


1'7'76.  .  WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  14T 

3.  The  American  general  designed,  after  taking  Prince- 
ton, to  push  on  his  march  to  New  Brunswick,  and  take  the 
magazines  and  baggage  of  the  enemy  deposited  there.  But 
Cornwaliis,  on  hearing  the  cannonade  from  Princeton,  and 
suspecting  his  plan,  had  hastened  his  march  from  Trenton, 
and  was  fast  approaching  the  Americans.  The  exhausted 
and  destitute  state  of  the  army,  induced  Washington  to  re- 
linquish his  design  of  going  to  Brunswick.  He  therefore 
retired,  January  6th,  to  winter  quarters  at  Morristown,  where 
his  army  were  inoculated  with  the  small-pox.  The  enemy 
retired  to  New  Brunswick. 

4.  Thus  closed  this  severe  campaign.  Considering  the 
circumstances  of  the  American  army,  its  achievements  were 
highly  honorable.  The  bold  and  successful  movements  of 
Washington  excited  the  admiration  of  both  Europe  and 
America.  Joy  and  hope  now  began  to  revive  the  drooping 
spirits  of  the  nation.  The  people  every  where  hailed  Wash- 
ington as  the  Savior  of  his  country. 

5.  Amid  all  the  calamities  which  threatened  the  nation, 
congress  displayed  the  dignity  and  firmness  of  true  patri- 
otism. In  the  mean  time,  having  returned  to  Philadelphia, 
it  made  every  exertion  to  supply  the  wants  of  the  suffering 
army,  and  for  obtaining  aid  from  foreign  powers.  For  the  pur- 
pose of  inducing  the  French  to  espouse  the  American  cause, 
three  commissioners  were  appointed  to  the  court  of  France — 
Dr.  Franklin,*  Silas  Deane,  and  Arthur  Lee.     They  were 

3.  To  what  place  did  Washington  repair  for  winter  quarters  1  Where  is 
Morristown  ?  Ans.  In  New  Jersey,  28  miles  west  of  New  York.  To  what 
place  did  the  enemy  retire  ?  Where  is  New  Brunswick  ?  Ans.  It  is  situated 
on  the  Raritan  river,  in  New  Jersey,  33  miles  southwest  of  New  York. 

4.  With  what  feelings  was  Washington  regarded  ? 

5.  What  was  the  conduct  of  congress  at  this  time  ?  Who  did  congress  send 
to  France  ?     What  foreign  nation  warmly  espoused  the  American  cause  ? 

ernor  of  Virginia,  he  visited  the  army  of  the  south,  under  Baron  de  Kalb,  as  military 
commissioner  ;  in  178.3,  at  the  age  of  twenty-four,  he  was  elected  member  of  con- 
gress ;  a  senator  of  the  United  States  in  1790  ;  appointed  minister  to  France  in  1794 ; 
governor  of  Virginia  in  1799;  again  minister  to  France,  with  Mr.  Livingston,  in 
1803  ;  in  the  same  year  minister  to  Great  Britain,  and  to  Spain  in  1804  ;  to  Great 
Britain  again  in  1S06  ;  governor  of  Virginia  in  1811  ;  appointed  Secretary  of  State  by 
President  Madison  in  1814,  and  raised  to  the  presidency  in  1817 ;  re-elected  unan- 
imously in  1821 ;  and  died  in  the  city  of  New  York,  on  the  4th  of  July,  1831. 

*  Benjamin  Franklin  was  born  in  Boston,  1706,  and  died  in  Philadelphia  in  1790. 
He  was  one  of  the  greatest  men  of  any  age  or  nation.    See  the  Life  of  Franklin. 


J4S  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  lYY?. 

instructed  to  solicit  a  loan  of  ten  million  francs,  to  procure 
arms  and  ammunition,  &c.,  and,  if  possible,  to  prevail  on  the 
French  government  to  recognize  the  Independence  of  the 
United  States.*  Although  the  French  government  at  first 
were  not  disposed  to  act  openly,  a  strong  sympathy  was  felt, 
and  individuals  warmly  espoused  the  American  cause.  | 
Among  these  was  the  young  Marquis  de  Lafayette, f  who  ' 
hired  a  ship  at  his  own  expense  to  bring  him  over  to  Amer- 
ica ;  and  who  afterward  became  a  distinguished  officer  in 
the  army,  and  the  bosom  friend  of  Washington. 

6,  The  soldiers  in  the  American  army  had  enlisted  to 
serve  only  one  year.  This  circumstance  caused  the  utmost 
derangement  in  the  plans  and  wishes  of  Washington. 
Sometimes  a  whole  regiment  would  leave  the  ranks  or  the 
camp  in  a  single  day.  A  new  army  was  now  raised,  to 
serve  three  years,  or  during  the  war.  Such  was  the  state 
of  the  American  forces  after  Washington  retired  to  Morris- 
town,  that  nothing  of  importance  was  attempted  till  spring.  A, 
During  the  latter  part  of  the  winter,  the  prisoners  at  New- J. 
York  suffered  extremely  from  the  inhuman  treatment  of 
the  British.  They  were  stowed  together  in  prison-ships, 
churches,  and  other  buildings.  Many  of  them  starved  to 
death,  and  others  were  suffered  to  die  of  loathsome  diseases, 
or  to  perish  with  cold. 


6.  What  embarrassments  did  Washington  experience  during  the  winter? 
What  were  the  sufferings  of  the  soldiers  ? 

•  France  acknowledged  "  The  Independence  of  the  United  States,"  Feb.  6th, 
1778.  Holland  in  1782.  Sweden  and  Denmark  in  February,  1783.  Spain  in  March, 
1783.    Russia  in  July,  1783. 

t  Gilbert  Mottier,  Marquis  de  Lafayette,  was  born  in  France,  in  1757.  He  was  de- 
scended from  distinguished  ancestors,  and  inherited  a  princely  fortune.  Such  was 
his  ardor  in  the  cause  of  liberty,  that  no  sooner  did  he  learn  the  situation  of  the 
American  people,  than  he  resolved  to  leave  his  native  country,  and  assist  them  in 
their  glorious  struggles  for  freedom.  He  made  known  his  intention  to  Dr.  Frank- 
lin, who  was  compelled  to  confess  to  him  that  his  government  was  so  destitute  of 
means  and  credit,  that  it  could  not  furnish  him  with  a  conveyance.  "  Then,"  said 
he,  "  I  will  fit  out  a  vessel  myself,"  and  he  did  so.  He  arrived  in  the  United  States 
at  19  years  of  age,  and  joined  the  army  under  Washington.  He  was  appointed  a 
major-general,  and  by  his  skill  and  services,  he  gained  the  esteem  and  the  affection 
of  the  whole  American  people.  In  1824,  he  visited  the  United  States,  and  made  a 
tour  through  the  country.  He  was  every  whei-e  received  with  the  highest  marks  of 
gratitude  and  respect.  He  returned  to  France  in  1825,  where  he  died  May  20th, 
1835.  The  wondrous  scenes,  both  in  the  New  and  Old  World,  in  which  the  name 
of  Lafayette  was  prominently  distinguished,  are  among  the  most  remarkable  in  the 
annals  of  mankind. 


nil.  '  WAR   OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  149 

7.  Early  in  the  spring,  several  detachments  from  the 
British  army  were  sent  out  on  excursions  to  cut  off  the 
supplies  for  the  Americans.  On  the  Hudson,  they  were 
successful  in  taking  several  places  where  flour  and  provisions 
were  deposited.  The  town  of  Danbury,  Connecticut,  was 
burned,  and  a  large  quantity  of  military  stores  destroyed. 
During  their  retreat,  they  were  assailed  by  detachments  of 
militia  under  Generals  Sullivan,  Arnold,  and  Wooster,  and 
before  they  regained  their  shipping  they  lost  about  300  men. 
Soon  after  this,  Col  Meigs  of  Connecticut  attacked  the 
British  at  Sag  Harbor,  on  Long  Island,  where  they  had 
collected  large  magazines  of  forage  and  grain,  killed  six  of 
the  enemy,  took  ninety  prisoners,  burned  twelve  vessels 
loaded  with  provisions,  apd  returned  to  Connecticut  without 
losing  a  man. 

8.  In  May,  Washington  commenced  operations  with 
10,000  men.  He  left  Morristown,  and  strongly  posted  his 
troops  at  Middlebrook.  The  enemy  advanced  against  him ; 
but  unwiUing  to  attack  him  in  this  position.  General  Howe 
removed  his  army  to  Staten  Island,  and  there  formed  a  plan 
for  taking  Philadelphia.  He  embarked  with  his  army,  and 
near  the  end  of  August  sailed  up  Chesapeake  bay  and 
landed  18,000  troops  near  the  head  of  Elk  river  in  Mary- 
land, and  commenced  his  march  toward  Philadelphia. 

9.  Washington  immediately  crossed  the  Delaware,  and 
met  him  at  Brandywine  creek,  in  Delaware,  where  a  de- 
structive battle  was  fought,  Sept.  II.  The  enemy  crossed 
the  creek  at  different  places,  and  attacking  the  American 
army  on  the  right  and  left,  soon  threw  the  line  into  confu- 
sion. Washington  perceiving  the  disorder  of  his  troops, 
ordered  a  retreat.  In  this  engagement  he  lost  about  1,000 
men.  General  Lafayette  was  among  the  wounded.  The 
loss  of  the  British  was  about  500.  The  next  day  the 
American  army  retreated  to  Philadelphia. 

10.  In  the  mean  time,  affairs  of  great  interest  had  been 

7.  What  did  the  British  do  in  the  spring  of  1777?  What  town  was<^'. 
stroyed  in  Connecticut  ■?     What  did  Colonel  Meigs  do  ? 

8.  What  is  said  of  Washington  ?     Howe  ? 
-     9.  Describe  the  battle  of  Brandywine. 

10.  What  were  the  English  attempting  to  do  in  the  north  at  this  time  ? 

13* 


154  HISTORY    OP   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1111. 

going  on  in  the  northern  dopartment.  Arnokl,  soon  after 
his  retreat  from  Canada,  had  prepared  a  small  tleet  to  keep 
the  enemy  in  check  on  Lake  Champlain.  l^nt  in  a  severe 
battle  he  lost  a  part  of  his  fleet,  and  was  obli«^ed  to  burn  the 
remainder  to  prevent  its  falling  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy. 
The  English  luul  now  forced  their  way  down  to  the  Hud- 
son. Their  plan  was  to  unite  their  forces  in  Canada  with 
those  in  New  York,  and  thus  cut  oif  all  intercourse  between 
New  England  and  the  southern  states. 

11.  Cieneral  Hurgoyne,  with  an  army  of  10,000  men,  left 
Quebec  in  the  spring,  on  this  important  enterprise.  He  sent 
a  detachment  to  C^swego,  with  orders  to  proceed  from  that 
place  and  meet  him  at  Albany.  British  agents  were  sent 
out,  who  succeedetl  in  persuading  thousands  of  Indian  war- 
riors to  join  tlieir  army.  Cn  the  lirst  of  July,  Burgoyne 
nrrivcd  at  Ticonderoga.  The  garrison,  under  tl\c  connnand 
of  General  St.  Clair,*  unable  to  ilefend  the  fort,  left  it  by 
night  and  crossed  the  lake.  They  were  unfortunately  over- 
taken by  the  enemy  at  Hubbardton,  July  7,  and  in  sev- 
eral skirmishes  were  routed  with  a  loss  of  800  men.  About 
200  of  the  enemy  were  killed. 

12.  The  scattered  troops  that  escaped  at  length  arrived 
at  Fort  Edward  on  the  Hudson,  the  head-quarters  of  the 
northern  army.  The  progress  of  the  British  forces  spread 
terror  and  dismay  through  the  country.  But  General 
Schuyler  f  made  every  possible  exertion  to  interrupt  their 

11.  "What  did  I>v«rgoyno  do?  When  did  he  arrive  at  Ticonderoga  f  Can 
you  show  me  TicondoiXJga  on  the  map  ?, 

12.  "What  Auiorioan  general  tried  to  interrupt  iheir  march? 


*  Arthur  St.  Clair  wjus  born  in  Edinburgh,  Scotliuid,  in  173-1.  IIo  cnme  fo  this 
country  in  n.xi,  will\  Aiiminil  Ui'soawfii.  lit-  was  ii  lituttuiuil  under  Wolfe  at  tlie 
tnkiUR  of  Quoboc.  At  tlu>  rloso  oltlio  Froiu-l»  war,  lu>  sttiloii  in  IV-unsvlvania.  In 
the  revolutionary  war,  ho  osnoused  tlio  cuuso  ot  the  colonics,  iuu\  wtis  aopoinlod  by 
conjiress  a  major  general,  Feb.  li),  1777.  At  llto  lerminaiion  ot  the  war,  lie  returned 
to  Pennsylvania,  ami  in  178-1  was  sent  a  delesrate  to  eonjfress  from  thai  state.  In 
17S7,  he  WIU3  chosen  president  ofcomiress.  In  i7Si>,  he  was  appointed  governor  of 
the  "territory  northwest  of  ti>e  Ohio,"  and  held  the  place  till  ISOJ.  In  l7iU.  he 
was  appointed  comnuinder-inchief  of  the  foreesto  be  employed  ajiainsi  the  Indians. 
In  November  of  the  saute  year,  he  met  with  his  memorable  defeat  near  the  Miami 
villages,  and  was  succeeded  by  Gei>.  Wayne,  lie  died  at  Laurel  hill,  Pennsyl- 
vania, ISIS. 

-  t  Philip  Schuyler  was  born  at  Albany,  New  York,  in  1731.  He  was  early  distin- 
guished for  his  talents  and  bravery,  and  in  1775.  congress  appoiiUed  him  a  major- 
general  in  the  American  army.    The  evacuation  of  Ticonderoga  by  St.  Clair,  occa- 


1777.  '     '       WAR    OF    THI<}    UK  VOLUTION.  I5l 

march.  He  pulled  up  bridp^es,  and  cut  down  trees  to  ob- 
struct the  rofids.  13ut  tho  liritish,  after  ^reat  fati^uo  and 
difficulty,  a|)i)f;aved  at  Fort  Kdward.  Schuybsr,  liavin^  not 
more  than  4,400  troops,  uiial)!*;  to  rcBint  tin;  (UHjmy,  rctrriatcd 
across  th(!  Hudson,  and  aflor  sov(;ral  removes,  j)()st(;d  his 
army  on  tin;  island  at  tho  mouth  of  tho   Mohawk  riv«!r. 

i;j.  About  this  time  news  eaiiK;  that  Fort  Sc-huylcr,  situ- 
ated wh(3ro  Ivomr,  now  stands,  was  bfisicjL^od  by  a  (bitaeh- 
meiit  wlii(;h  I^u-^'-oyno  had  sent  !i.^ainst  it  under  (Jol.  St. 
Leger.  General  Herkimer,  with  a  band  of  800  militia,  had 
marched  to  relieve  tlie  ^';arrison,  but  fii.lliii<^  into  an  ambus- 
cade near  Oriskany,  lost  more  thiin  hn,lf  of  his  men.  Ar- 
nold, with  thrcM;  re<:^iments,  wns  irmn(!diat<dy  sent  to  raise 
the  sicf^e.  The  eiK.'my  no  sooner  perceived  his  approiich, 
than  they  fled  in  j^reat  hast(;,  leaving  their  ba«.^^af^«;  and 
stores,  and  retnjatfjd  to  Canada.  The  Americans  had  loriji^ 
felt  indijL^n!i,nt  tow;ird  tho  liritish  for  employing  the  san- 
guinary Indians  as  their  allies.  The  atrocities  they  com- 
mitted, and  csi)ecially  the  shocking  death  of  Jane  M'CJrea,* 
greatly  inflamed  the  people,  and  the  militia  of  all  the  sur- 
rounding country  now  b<!gan  to  assemble  to  the  aid  of  the 
Am(!rican  forces. 

14.  Gen.  Schuyler's  army  increased  rapidly,  and  just  as 


11.   What  (lid  (Umcr.il  Horkimfir  do?     Arnold  '! 

11.  Who  was  :ij)ji<)i/it(!(l  to  llic  chief  cominiuid  .'  Why/  Wlio  wan  sent  to 
Ilciiniii^toii  ?      What  lia]n)f!in;(l  { 

hioriinR  urircaHonable  jfiul(»uHif!«  in  regard  to  Schuyler  in  New  Rntfland,  he  was 
NH|)erHedcd  by  (jeiicrul  Oatew  iu  Au^iiHt,  and  an  inquiry  waH  dirtotcd  l;y  con/frewH 
to  be  made  into  liis  condiiet.  lie  wan  afterward,  tlion>(n  fiot  in  the  re>,'nlar  Nfrviee, 
very  nseiul  to  hiH  country  in  the  niiUlary  tranHacliouH  of  New   Yorl(.     lie  died 

in  mn. 

'  MiKB  Jane  M'f  Jrea  woB  a  lovnly  yonntr  lady,  en^jajjed  to  be  married  to  Havirl 
Jonen,  a  royalist  and  anoflicer  in  J{ur«<)ynr;'H  army.  At.  tbe  tinu;  of  tliiH  tra/,'i(al 
event  she  waN  visitinK  at  the  houKe  of  MrH.  M'Neil,  about  half  a  mile  from  Tori.  Kd 
ward.  She  hud  been  reminded  by  llie  people  of  the  (()rtof  iirr  danger  in  ho  exposed 
and  unjirotectcd  a  Hiluation.  Hut  it  seemK  Hhe  had  promJHed  ber  lover  (f)  remain 
in  that  place  until  the  aporoach  of  tl»e  llritJHb  troopH,  wlien  nlie  would  join  him  in 
company  with  her  friend,  MrH.  M'Ntil.  Hut  .lonew,  anxiouN  for  her  Kafety,  Hf  iit  two 
InrliauH  witli  a  letter  and  a  horse  to  cnndur.t.  ber  to  the  Hriti^b  canif) ;  and  a),'r<-ed  to 
give  lliem  a  barrel  (»f  rum,  j)rovided  Ibev  brou>,dit.  ber  in  .safety.  It  iH  Hiali-d  tbnt 
they  were  met  on  the  way  by  a  parly  (>t"^IndiariH  wbo,  anxiouK  to  ..tiiain  (lie  jirom- 
JBed  reward,  utrove  to  ^et  |>o^!HeHHi(>n  of  ber,  arul  bad  nearly  hu<<,i  i  dcd,  wbeii  one 
of  the  two,  to  nrevent  her  falling  i;ito  their  bandK,  killed  ber  with  bii;  tfimabawlc. 
Her  death  produced  a  lively  impreKBion  tbrouj;bout  the  country,  and  Hurke,  in  on»3 
of  lii«  most  celebrated  BpeechcH  in  tbe  HritiHh  parliament,  made  the  story  of  Jane 
M'Crea  familiar  to  the  European  world. 


152  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED   STATES. 


he  saw  himself  sure  of  a  glorious  victory,  he  was  superseded 
bj  Gen.  Gates,*  who  was  appointed  by  congress  to  the 
chief  command  of  the  northern  armv.  Burgoyne  was  now 
makmg  all  possible  exertions  to  prepare  his  army  to  advance 
against  Albany,  He  found  immense  dithcnlty  in  transport 
ing  provisions  from  Lake  Greorge  to  the  Hudson  river.  H 
sent  Colonel  Biium,  with  GOO  troops  to  Bennington,  Ver- 
mont, to  take  a  large  quantity  of  provisions  which  the-^ 
Americans  had  deposited  there.  But  when  Baum  approached 
that  place,  he  learned  that  a  large  force  of  miUtia  had  just 
arrived  from  New  Hampshire.  Alarmed  for  their  safety, 
the  enemy  at  once  intrenched  themselves. 

15.  Next  day,  Aug.  16,  the  militia,  under  General  Stark,t 
attacked  them,  killed  many,  and  took  a  large  number  of 
prisoners.  Col.  Baum  was  mortally  wounded.  Before  night 
a  reinforcement  of  500  Germans  arrived  from  the  British 
camp,  under  Col.  Brevman.  They  were  immediately'  as- 
saulted by  the  militia,  and  totally  routed.  In  the  two  en- 
gagements the  enemy  lost  about  800  men,  mostly-  prisoners, 

15.  Who  commanded  the  American  militia  at  Bennington?  What  reinforce- 
ment arrived  ?  State  the  result  of  the  battle  of  Bennington.  Where  did 
Burgoyne  jx>sl  his  army  .'     Where  did  the  American  army  encamp  ? 


e 


» 


"  Horatio  Gates  was  born  in  England,  in  1?29.  He  entered  the  British  army  in 
early  life.  He  was  w^ith  Hraddook  at  his  defeat  in  1755,  and  was  shot  through  the 
body.  When  peace  was  concluded,  he  purchased  an  estate  in  Virginia,  where  he 
resided  until  the  commencement  of  the  revolutionary  war.  1775,  when  he  was 
appointetl  general  in  the  ai-my  of  the  I'nited  States.  Atler  the  close  ©f  the  wai-  he 
retired  to  his  farm  in  Virginia.  Though  gentlemanly  in  his  manners,  he  was  cold, 
selhsli,  and  ever  wanting  in  that  noble  spirit  which  belongs  to  a  true  man.  The 
victory  at  Saratoga  was  achieved  by  Arnold,  yet  Gates  received  the  honors  of  it. 
In  a  word,  he  was  a  vain,  ambitious,  weak  mail,  greatly  inferior,  in  all  the  higher 
quahties  of  mind,  to  Schuyler,  and,  in  the  noble  daring,  skill,  and  true  courage,  to 
Arnold. 

t  John  Stark  was  born  at  Londonderry,  New  Hampshire,  in  172S.  He  served  in 
the  French  wai-.  When  the  news  of  the'  battle  of  Le.vington  reached  him,  he  was 
engaged  at  work  in  his  sawmill.  Instantly  seizing  his  musket,  he  hastened  to 
Cambridge,  where  our  little  army  was  then  encamped.  He  was  in  the  battle  of 
Breed's  hill,  at  the  head  of  the  New  Hampshire  troops  He  was  in  some  of  the 
principal  engagements  previous  to  the  battle  of  Bennington.  When  Baum  was  sent 
to  get  possession  of  the  stores  vU  Bennington.  Stark  was  fortunately  at,  or  near  that 
place,  on  his  way  to  the  main  army,  with  l,4tX.">  militia,  most  of  whom  were  denomi- 
nated "Green  Mountain  Boys."'  As  he  led  on  these  brave  fellows  to  the  attack, 
pointing  to  the  enemy,  *>  Bovs,"  said  he,  "  you  see  our  foes.  We  shall  beat  them  ; 
or  my  wife  will  be  a'widow  to-night."  It 'was  enough  ;  and  the  result  showed  that 
his  troops  were  animated  by  the  same  spirit  as  their  leader.  For  this  brilliant 
achievement,  he  was  appointed  brigadier-general.  He  died  in  182i  He  was  an 
excellent  soldier,  and  a  citizen  of  unblemislied  character. 


1111. 


WAII    OF    THE    R£V0LT;TI0N. 


Jo3 


B  A  I  T  L  K       OF     UK 


and  lYifi  Americans  about  one  hundred.  The  Americans 
took  from  the  enemy  1.000  muskets,  900  swords,  several 
pieces  of  cannon,  and  a  large  quantity  of  bagg-age.  The 
militia,  well  equipped  from  these  spoils,  marched  on  to  join 
the  regular  troops  at  the  mouth  of  the  Mohawk.  Burgoyne 
at  length  crossed  the  Hudson,  and  posted  his  army  at  Sara- 
toga. The  American  general  soon  after  marched  up  the 
river,  and  encamped  at  Stillwater,  a  few  miles  from  the 
enemy. 

10.  On  ttie  19th  of  September,  a  battle  commenced  at 
first  between  scouting  parties,  but  soon  both  armies  became 
engaged.  The  thunder  of  cannon  and  the  noise  of  conflict 
continued  till  night,  when  the  Americans  retreated  to  their 
camp,  and  the  British  slept  on  their  arms.  The  loss  of  the 
enemy  was  over  600  men  ;  that  of  the  Americans  about  half 
that  number.  The  next  day  the  British  general  intrenched 
his  army.  He  was  now  in  great  distress.  His  provisions 
began  to  fail,  and  his  horses  were  already  starving  for  want 
of  fodder.  His  Indian  forces  began  to  desert  him,  and  no 
assistance  arrived  from  New  York  as  he  expected. 

IG.  What  took  iilaco  on  the  lOih  of  September? 


154 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1117. 


17.  In  this  condition  he  resolved  to  risk  another  battle. 
On  the  7th  of  October  he  drew  out  a  part  of  his  men,  and 
made  an  advance  toward  the  left  wing  of  the  Americans, 
when  a  furious  attack  was  made  by  Col.  Morgan  with  his 
riflemen.  Arnokl,  with  his  usual  impetuosity,  led  on  the 
troops,  and  soon  put  the  right  of  the  British  to  rout,  seized 
their  cannon,  and  drove  them  into  their  intrenchments.  The 
whole  American  line  now  assailed  the  enemy  with  despe- 
rate bravery,  and  before  night  stormed  their  intrenchments, 
and  compeUod  them  to  fall  back  to  a  stronger  position,  with 
a  loss  of  400  killed  and  taken,  and  a  large  quantity  of  bag- 
gage. Among  the  slain  were  Gen.  Frazer  and  several 
other  valuable  officers  of  the  British  army.  The  American 
loss  was  about  eighty  men. 


II     UK     UENKRAL     FRAZEK. 


18.  Burgoync,  now  convinced  that  he  could  not  advance, 
resolved  to  retreat  without  delay  to  Fort  Edward,  and  thence 
to  Canada.     But  it  was  too  late.     He  found  himself  sur- 


17.  What  took  place  on  the  7th  of  October?     What  distinguished  British 
general  was  killed  ! 

18.  What  did  Burgoyne  now  resolve  to  do  ?     What  happened  while  he  and 
his  olHcers  were  sitting  in  council .'   When  did  Burgoyne  surrender  his  army  ? 


1777.  '  WAR    OF    TIIK    REVOLUTION.  155 

rounded  by  the  Americans,  and  all  the  passes  strongly- 
guarded.  He  was  destitute  of  provisions,  his  troops  were 
exhausted,  and  a  destructive  fire  from  the  enemy  was  con- 
stantly pouring  in  upon  his  camp.  While  he,  with  his  offi- 
cers, was  holding  a  council,  a  cannon-ball  crossed  the  table 
around  which  they  were  seated.  In  this  state  of  distress  it 
was  resolved  to  surrender  the  whole  army.  Burgoyne  im- 
mediately opened  a  negotiation  with  the  American  general, 
and  articles  of  stipulation  were  agreed  upon  on  the  17lh  of 
October.  The  British  were  to  deliver  up  all  their  arms, 
baggage,  and  stores  to  the  Americans,  and  return  to  Eng- 
land, on  condition  of  not  serving  against  the  United  States 
during  the  war.  The  whole  number  surrendered,  including 
officers  and  men,  v/as  5,791.*  The  loss  of  the  British  since 
the  sif!ge  of  Tieonderoga  amounted  to*  about  9,000  men. 
General  Gates,  in  honor  of  this  great  victory,  received  the 
thanks  of  congress  and  a  gold  medal. f 

19.  In  the  mean  time,  Sir  Henry  Clinton  had  sent  an 
army  of  3,000  men,  under  Gen.  Vaughan,  up  the  Hudson ; 
but  instead  of  hastening  to  the  relief  of  Burgoyne,  he  spent 
his  time  in  plundering  and  burning  the  villages  along  the 
river.  As  soon  as  he  heard  of  the  surrender  of  the  British 
army,  he  retreated  to  New  York.  The  glorious  success  of 
the  northern  army  spread  universal  joy  through  the  nation, 
and  the  large  quantity  of  arms,  ammunition,  &c.,  taken  from 
the  enemy,  well  supplied  the  Americans  with  the  means  of 
prosecuting  the  war. 

20.  We  now  return  to  the  affairs  of  Washington's  army. 


19.  What  had  Sir  Henry  Clinton  done  in  the  mean  time  ?    What  did  Vaug- 
han do  ? 

20.  When  did  the  British  take  jKjssession  of  Philadelphia 'f 


*  The  trophies  obtained  by  this  cnpifulation  were,  42  brass  field-pieces,  7,000 
mu.skets  with  G.OiM)  dozen  c;ir( ridges-,  a  vast  supply  of  shot,  shells,  &c.,  a  jjreat  num- 
ber of  tents  and  military  .stores,  with  clothing  for  7,000  men. 

t  Gales  was  not  on  the  field,  nor,  indeed,  did  he  leave  his  encampment  during 
either  of  the  battles  of  Stillwater  and  Saratoj^a,  or,  as  they  are  often  called,  "  Beh- 
mus  heights."  Durin;;  the  battle  of  Saratoga  he  was  quietly  sitting  in  his  room, 
conversing  with  Sir  Francis  Clark,  a  British  officer,  then  a  prisoner.  "  It  is  a  curi- 
ous fact,"  says  Sparks,  in  his  life  of  Arnold,  "that  an  oflicer,  who  really  had  no 
command  in  the  army,  was  the  leader  in  one  of  the  most  spirited  and  important 
battles  of  the  Revolution."  Though  the  victory  was  mainly  achieved  by  tlie  brav- 
ery and  military  abilities  of  Gen.  Arnold,  Gates,  in  his  report  of  it  to  congress,  made 
no  mention  of  his  services,  or  the  brave  Morgan's. 


156  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  lY'TS. 

Soon  after  his  retreat  to  Philadelphia,  he  again  marched 
out  his  troops  to  give  battle  to  the  enemy,  but  a  violent 
storm,  which  unfitted  their  arms  for  use,  prevented.  Wash- 
ington, with  a  part  of  his  army,  crossed  the  Schuylkill,  and 
soon  after,  the  other  division  under  Gen.  Wayne*  was  at- 
tacked and  defeated.  It  was  now  impossible  to  prevent  the 
march  of  the  enemy  into  Philadelphia.  The  inhabitants 
had  already  removed  the  magazines  and  public  stores  ;  and 
congress  had  adjourned  to  Lancaster.  On  the  26th  of  Sep- 
tember, the  British  took  possession  of  the  city. 

21.  A  part  of  the  British  army  remained  in  the  city,  and 
the  remainder  took  post  at  Germantown.  Washington, 
taking  advantage  of  the  divided  situation  of  the  enemy,  on 
the  night  of  October  3d,  sent  several  divisions  to  attack  the 
British  at  Germantown,  in  front  and  rear.  Next  morning 
two  detachments  assaulted  the  enemy  on  the  right  and  left. 
But  the  other  divisions  which  were  to  attack  them  in  the 
rear  did  not  arrive  in  time ;  so  that  the  troops  were  divided, 
and  vigorously  repulsed  by  the  enemy.  In  their  confusion 
many  were  killed,  and  many  taken  prisoners.  The  loss  on 
the  American  side  was  about  1,200  ;  that  of  the  enemy,  500. 

22.  The  Americans  at  this  time  had  strong  garrisons  in 
Fort  Mercer  at  Red  Bank,  and  in  Fort  Mifflin  on  Mud  Isl- 
and— at  opposite  sides  of  the  Delaware  river.  These  were 
repeatedly  assaulted  by  the  British ;  and  after  the  loss  of 
500  men,  they  succeeded  in  taking  them,  Nov.  18th.  The 
Americans  lost  thirty-two  men.  The  British  fleet  could  now 
come  quite  up  to  the  city.  The  condition  of  Washington's 
troops  was  truly' distressing.  By  their  frequent  marches 
they  had  worn  out  their  shoes  and  clothing.     They  might 

21.  Describe  the  attack  on  the  British  at  Germantown. 

22.  Where  was  Red  Bank?  Ans.  On  the  Jersey  side  of  the  Delaware  river, 
seven  miles  south  of  Philadelphia.  Where  is  Mud  Island  ?  A71S.  It  is  seven 
miles  below  Pliiladelphia,  in  the  Delaware  river.  It  is  strongly  fortified. 
What  was  the  condition  of  Washington's  army  ?  To  what  place  did  they  re- 
tire for  winter  quarters  ?     Where  did  the  British  winter  ? 

*  Anthony  Wayne,  called  "Mad  Anthony,"  was  born  in  Easton,  Pennsylvania, 
in  1745.  He  was  appointed  brigadier-general  in  1776.  He  was  engaged  in  nume- 
rous battles,  and  was  ever  distinguished  for  bravery,  skill,  and  intrepidity.  In  1792, 
he  succeeded  St.  Clair  in  the  command  of  the  aitny  employed  against  the  Indians. 
It  is  said  of  him  that  his  name  Avas  a  host.    He  died  in  1796. 


1111.  '  WAR   OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  157 

have  been  tracked,  it  is  said,  by  the  blood  of  their  feet.  The 
American  army  at  length  retired  to  winter  quarters  at  a 
place  called  Valley  Forge,  about  twenty-five  miles  from 
Philadelphia.     The  British  army  was  quartered  in  the  city. 


EVENTS  OF  1778. 


1.  The  defeat  of  Burgoyne,  and  the  surrender  of  his  army, 
struck  all  Europe  with  astonishment.  The  people  of  Eng- 
land were  exceedingly  mortified  and  indignant.  Their  na- 
tional pride  was  humbled.  Complaints  and  reproaches  were 
constantly  poured  forth  against  the  ministry  and  parliament. 
A  plan  of  reconciliation  was  at  once  proposed,  and  commis- 
sioners sent  to  restore  peace  between  the  revolted  colonies 
and  the  mother  country.  France,  who  had  hitherto  hesita- 
ted, now  openly  acknowledged  the  Independence  of  the 
United  States,  and  entered  into  alliance  with  them.  A  fleet 
was  soon  sent  to  America,  to  aid  in  the  war  against  Great 
Britain.  Other  nations  of  Europe  soon  acknowledged  the 
national  character  of  the  United  States. 

2.  The  members  of  congress  had  found  it  necessary  to 
frame  a  league,  by  which  their  power  might  be  increased 
and  their  authority  enforced.  For  this  purpose  they  adopt- 
ed "  Articles  of  Confederation,"  *  which  were  approved  by 
each  state.  By  these,  congress  was  authorized  to  declare 
war,  to  conclude  peace,  contract  alliances,  and  act  as  a  sov- 

1.  What  effect  did  the  defeat  of  Burgoyne  jsroduce  in  Europe  ? 

2.  What  power  did  the  "  Articles  of  Confederation"  confer  on  congress  ? 
Who  was  elected  inspector-general  ?  Ans.  The  Baron  Steuben.  He  was  a 
native  of  Prussia,  and  had  served  many  years  in  the  armies  of  Frederick  the 
Great.  He  came  to  America  in  1776,  and  by  his  knowledge  of  the  military 
tactics  of  Europe,  rendered  the  most  essential  service  to  the  army.  He  died 
at  Steubenville,  in  the  State  of  New  York,  in  1794. 

*  These  "  Articles  of  Confederation"  amounted  to  little  more  than  a  league  of 
friendship  between  the  states.  The  plan  was  first  proposed  by  Dr.  Franklin,  in  the 
summer  of  1775,  But  at  that  time  nothing  was  done.  Congress  appointed  a  com- 
mittee, June  11th.  1777,  to  prepare  a  plan  of  confederation.  In  July  a  plan  was  re- 
ported, and  after  various  changes,  was  adopted  by  congress,  Nov.  15th,  1777.  These 
were  tinally  approved  and  ratified  by  all  the  state.«.  Maryland  was  the  last  to  adopt 
them,  March  1st,  1781.  This  confederation  was  defective,  but  remained  the  basis  of 
union  until  the  adoption  of  the  present  constitution,  in  1789. 

14 


158  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  17*78. 

ereign  head  to  the  nation.  Congress  now  took  more  vig- 
orous measures  to  improve  the  order  and  disciphne  of  the 
troops.  Baron  Steuben  was  elected  inspector-general  to  su- 
perintend the  tactics  of  the  army. 

3.  In  the  spring,  commissioners  arrived  from  England,  and 
offered  terms  of  reconciliation.  In  a  word,  the  British  min- 
istry offered  to  give  the  Americans  what  they  asked  for  be- 
fore the  commencement  of  the  war.  But  congress  was 
firm  in  the  purpose  to  maintain  the  independence  of  the  na- 
tion. The  motto  of  the  people  was,  "  Independence  now, 
and  Independence  forever."  The  commissioners,  bent  on 
the  accomplishment  of  their  object,  resorted  to  bribery.  An 
offer  of  ten  thousand  pounds  sterling  was  made  to  General 
Reed,  if  he  would  bring  about  a  reconciliation.  He  rephed, 
in  the  true  spirit  of  freedom,  "  I  am  not  worth  purchasing, 
but  such  as  I  am,  the  king  of  Great  Britain  is  not  rich 
enough  to  buy  me." 

4.  The  American  army,  while  in  winter  quarters  at  Val- 
ley Forge,  suffered  great  extremities.  The  soldiers  several 
times  nearly  perished  with  hunger,  and  Washington  having 
no  means  of  relieving  their  necessities,  permitted  them  to 
seize  on  the  provisions  of  the  neighboring  farmers.  Half 
ndked  and  half  starved,  many  fell  sick  and  died,  for  want 
of  the  necessaries  of  life.  But  spring  opened ;  and  Wash- 
ington, after  incessant  exertion,  found  his  army  again  in 
comfortable  circumstances.  The  British  army  still  occupied 
Philadelphia.  In  May,  Gen.  Howe  resigned  his  command, 
and  was  succeeded  by  Sir  Henry  CHnton.  The  English 
ministry,  expecting  that  France  would  now  take  an  active 
part  in  the  war,  and  deeming  Philadelphia  an  unsafe  posi- 
tion, being  too  far  from  the  sea  and  liable  to  be  blockaded, 
ordered  the  troops  to  leave  and  repair  to  New  York.  On 
the  18th  of  June  they  left  Philadelphia,  crossed  the  Dela- 
ware, and  proceeded  through  the  Jerseys  toward  Sandy 
Hook. 


3.  Who  arrived  in  the  spring  of  1778  ?    What  offer  did  they  make  to  Gen. 
Reed  ?     His  reply  ?     Would  you  have  done  as  he  did  ? 

4.  What  was  the  condition  of  Washington's  army  at  Valley  Forge  ?    When 
did  the  British  leave  Philadelphia? 


1*778.  '  WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  159 

5.  The  British  had  no  sooner  left  Philadelphia,  than 
Washington  commenced  a  pursuit.  He  came  up  with  them 
not  far  from  Monmouth  court-house,  where  a  severe  but  in- 
decisive battle  was  fought.  During  this  engagement  Wash- 
ington had  occasion  to  reprove  General  Lee,*  for  not  strictly 
obeying  his  orders.  At  this  Lee  was  greatly  offended,  and 
afterward  wrote  to  Washington,  demanding  an  apology. 
The  case  was  submitted  to  a  court-martial,  and  Lee  being 
convicted  of  misconduct,  was  deprived  of  his  office  for  one 
year.  In  this  battle  the  British  lost  about  350  men ;  the 
Americans  about  200.  Many  of  the  German  troops  during 
the  winter  had  married  in  Philadelphia,  and  allured  by  the 
charms  of  wedded  life,  about  one  thousand  deserted  the 
camp  of  the  British.  Washington  continued  to  harass  the 
enemy  in  their  march  through  New  Jersey.  The  British 
having  entered  New  York,  Washington  conducted  his  army 
to  White  Plains.     Congress  now  returned  to  Philadelphia. 

6.  When  Great  Britain  learned  that  France  had  formed 
an  alliance  with  the  United  States,  she  immediatelj^  declared 
war  against  that  nation.  In  July,  a  large  French  fleet, 
under  Count  d'Estaing,  arrived  in  Chesapeake  bay.  This 
excited  joy  and  hope  throughout  the  nation.  A  plan  was 
soon  concerted  in  congress  for  attacking  the  British  at  New- 
port in  Rhode  Island.     For  this  purpose,  Gen.  Sullivan,  with 

5.  When  was  the  battle  of  Monmouth  fought  ?  This  place  is  now  called 
Freehold.  It  is  sixty-four  miles  from  Philadelphia.  Who  was  reproved  by- 
Washington  ?     The  decision  of  the  court-martial  ? 

6.  When  and  where  did  a  French  fleet  arrive  ?  What  plan  was  concerted? 
What  took  place  on  the  9th  of  August,  1778  ?  What  prevented  a  battle  be- 
tween the  fleets  ? 

'  Charles  Lee  vvaf?  born  in  Wales.  He  entered  tlie  army  at  an  early  age.  He 
traveled  through  several  kingdoms  of  Europe,  and  came  to  America  in  1756.  He 
was  engaged  iri  the  attack  upon  Ticonderoga,  July,  IT.'iS,  when  Abercrombie  was 
defeated.  He  afterward  returned  to  Europe,  and  served  under  Burgoyne,  in  Portu- 
gal, and  soon  after  entered  into  the  Polish  service.  After  this,  he  rambled  over  all 
Europe,  and  returned  to  America  in  1773.  He  soon  traveled  through  the  country, 
animating  the  colonies  to  resistance.  In  1775,  he  was  appointed  a  major-general  in 
the  American  army.  He  was  learned,  and  possessed  vigorous  powers  of  mind; 
and,  as  an  officer,  he  was  brave,  able,  and  did  much  toward  disciplining  the  Amer- 
ican armv.  After  he  was  sentenced  by  the  court-martial  to  be  suspended  one  year 
from  his  office,  he  retired  to  an  estate  he  had  purchased  in  Virginia,  and  never  after- 
ward joined  the  army.  In  1782,  he  went  to  Philadelphia,  and  took  lodgings  at  an 
inn.  After  being  there  three  or  four  days,  he  was  seized  with  a  fever,  which  termi« 
nated  his  life>  October  2d.  The  last  words  which  he  uttered  were,  "  Stand  by  me, 
my  brave  grenadiers,  stand  by  me." 


160  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1*778. 

a  detachment  from  Washington's  army,  and  with  reinforce- 
ments from  New  England,  amounting  in  all  to  10,000  men, 
proceeded  thither,  and  on  the  9th  of  August,  took  a  position 
on  the  north  end  of  Rhode  Island.  The  French  fleet  and 
the  army  were  to  begin  the  attack  at  the  same  time.  On 
the  9th  of  August,  the  British  fleet  appeared  off  the  harbor. 
The  French  seeing  this,  immediatelj'-  weighed  anchor  and 
commenced  a  chase.  But  a  violent  storm  came  on,  which 
prevented  a  battle,  and  greatly  damaged  the  fleets. 

7.  Owing  to  this  disaster,  the  French  admiral  was  obliged 
to  repair  to  Boston  to  refit  his  ships.  The  army  had  al- 
ready commenced  the  siege  of  Newport ;  but  discouraged 
by  the  ill  success  of  the  fleet,  the  troops  at  length  retreated. 
The  British  pursued,  and  on  the  28th  of  August  attacked 
them  in  the  northern  part  of  the  island ;  but  they  were  re- 
pulsed with  the  loss  of  260  men.  The  loss  of  the  Ameri- 
cans was  210.  Soon  after  this,  the  French  fleet  left  the 
coast  of  New  England,  and  sailed  to  the  West  Indies. 

8.  The  enemy  spent  the  rest  of  the  summer  in  plundering 
expeditions.  At  New  Bedford,  Fair  Haven,  Egg  Harbor, 
and  other  places,  a  vast  amount  of  public  and  private  prop- 
erty was  seized,  and  much  wantonly  destroyed.  The  in- 
habitants were  sometimes  left  in  a  state  of  abject  wretch- 
edness. 

9.  Several  instances  of  shocking  barbarity  occurred  during 
the  summer.  A  regiment  of  cavalry  under  the  command 
of  Colonel  Baylor,  called  the  Washington  Light-Horse, 
while  asleep  in  a  barn  at  Tappan,  were  surprised  by  the 
British,  and  about  half  of  them  killed.  General  Grey,  who 
commanded  the  enemy,  ordered  his  men  to  give  "  the  rebels" 
no  quarter.  They  fell  upon  them  with  their  bayonets,  and 
notwithstanding  their  intreaties  for  mercy,  pierced  them 
through  and  through.  About  forty  were  saved  by  the  com- 
passion of  the  soldiers,  contrary  to  the  orders  of  the  general. 

10.  But  a  tragedy  still  more  horrid  was  acted  at  Wyom- 


7.  What  did  the  army  do  ?     The  British  ? 

8.  How  did  the  enemy  spend  the  rest  of  the  summer? 

9.  What  happened  at  Tappan  ?     Where  is  Tappan  ?    Ans.  On  the  Hudson, 
or  North  river. 


1778. 


WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION. 


161 


ing.  This  was  a  happy  and  flourishing  settlement  on  the 
Susquehanna,  in  the  northern  part  of  Pennsylvania.  At 
that  time  it  contained  more  than  1,000  families,  most  of 
whom  were  from  Connecticut.  Industry  and  frugality  had 
added  to  their  prosperity ;  and  intelligence  and  morality  had 
awakened  in  them  the  love  of  liberty  and  human  rights. 
They  entered  zealously  into  the  war,  and  furnished  about 
1,000  soldiers  for  the  army  of  Washington.  Sull,  there  were 
a  few  tories,  or  loyalists,  among  them ;  -and  these,  incensed 
at  the  views  and  measures  of  the  great  majority,  went  to  the 


ASSACRE     AT     WYOMINOi 


neighboring  tribes  of  Indians,  and  there  plotted  measures  for 
the  destruction  of  the  whole  settlement.  On  the  1st  of  July 
about  1,600  men — Tories,  British,  and  Indians — under  Col. 
Butler,  the  tory  commander,  and  an  Indian  chief,  fell  upon 
the  inhabitants,  set  fire  to  the  houses,  cut  the  men  to  pieces, 
and  left  women  and  children  to  perish  in  the  flames.  The 
whole  settlement  was  ravaged  and  laid  waste ;  crops  de- 
stroyed, fruit  trees  torn  up,  and  cattle  killed.  All  was  ruined 
except  the  farms  of  the  tories,  which  appeared  like  islands 
in  the  midst  of  the  surrounding  desolation. 

10.  Describe  the  massacre  of  Wyoming.  What  is  the  meaning  of  massacre  ? 

14* 


162  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  l7Y9. 

11.  The  British  now  determmed  to  change  the  theater 
of  action  from  the  north  to  the  south.  Accordingly  2,000 
men,  under  the  command  of  Col.  Campbell,  were  sent  from 
New  York  to  invade  Georgia.  There  were  only  1,200 
Americans  in  that  state  to  oppose  them.  They  landed  near 
Savannah  on  the  29th  of  December,  and  after  defeating  a 
small  body  of  troops  under  Gen.  Robert  Howe,  they  took 
possession  of  the  city.  Gen.  Howe  retreated  with  his  men, 
and  crossed  the  river  into  South  Carolina.  In  the  mean 
time.  Gen.  Prevost,  with  the  British  forces  from  Florida, 
having  taken  the  fort  at  Sunbury,  the  only  remaining  mili- 
tary post  in  Georgia,  marched  to  Savannah,  and  took  the 
chief  command  of  the  southern  British  army.  About  this 
time,  Gen.  Lincoln  *  received  orders  to  take  command  of  the 
southern  forces,  and  Washington  retired  with  his  army  into 
winter  quarters,  near  Middlebrook  in  New  Jersey.  Thus 
ended  the  campaign  of  1778  ;  the  least  important  since  the 
beginninfi:  of  the  war. 


EVENTS  OF  1779. 


1,  The  population  of  the  southern  states  was  much  more 
scattered  than  that  of  the  northern  ;  and  many  of  the  people 
were  tories,  whose  influence  over  the  negroes  and  neighbor- 
ing Indians  was  very  dangerous  to  the  true  lovers  of  liberty. 
Taking  advantage  of  this  state  of  things,  the  British  hoped 
to  make  an  easy  conquest  of  the  south. 

11.  What  did  the  British  now  resolve  to  do?  Who  was  sent  to  Georgia? 
How  many  Americans  were  there  to  oppose  them  in  Georgia?  When  did 
the  British  take  Savannah?    Where  is  Savannah? 

'  Benjamin  Lincohj  was  born  at  Hingham,  Massachusetts,  in  1733.  He  had  few 
a(lvantaa:es  of  education,  and  was  employed  in  agricultural  pursuits  till  he  was  more 
than  forty  years  of  age.  At  the  comniencement  of  our  revolutionary  struggle,  he 
held  the  office  of  lieutenant-colonel  of  militia.  In  1776,  he  was  appointed  major- 
general,  and  in  October,  joined  the  main  army  at  New  York.  In  1778,  he  was  ap- 
pointed to  the  command  of  the  army  in  the  southern  states;  and  he  arrived  in 
Charleston  in  December.  Although  constrained  to  capitulate,  May  12.  17S0.  his  rep- 
utation as  an  able,  prudent,  and  brave  officer,  was  untarnished.  He  was  at  the 
siege  of  Yorktown,  and  appointed  to  receive  the  submission  of  the  captured  troops. 
In  1781,  congress  elected  him  secretai-y  of  war.  In  1787,  he  was  elected  lieutenant- 
governor  of  Massachusetts.    In  1789,  he  was  appointed  commissioner  to  make  peace 


1779.  '  WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  163 

2.  General  Lincoln,  who  had  been  appointed  to  the  com- 
mand of  the  southern  army,  in  April,  left  South  Carolina,  and 
marched  against  the  British  in  Georgia.  Arriving  at  the 
Savannah,  he  sent  a  detachment  of  2,000  men,  under  Gen. 
Ash,  across  the  river,  to  take  post  at  Brier  creek.  Here,  on  the 
3d  of  March,  Ash  was  surprised  by  Prevost  and  totally  defeat- 
ed, with  the  loss  of  450  men,  while  that  of  the  enemy  was  but 
twenty-three.  This  victory  gave  the  British  full  possession 
of  Georgia.  The}'-  now,  in  turn,  prepared  to  invade  South  Ca- 
rolina. But  not  being  able  to  cross  the  Savannah  river,  they 
attempted  to  get  possession  of  the  island  of  Port  Royal ;  but 
in  this  attempt  they  were  defeated  by  the  Carolinians  under 
Gen.  Moultrie,  with  severe  loss.  At  length  the  British  gen- 
eral crossed  the  Savannah,  and  marched  against  Charles- 
ton. The  inhabitants  of  that  city  made  every  preparation 
for  defense,  and  notixied  Lincoln  of  their  danger.  The  Brit- 
ish, not  able  to  force  their  way  into  the  city,  retreated  and 
took  post  on  the  island  of  St.  John's,  and  Stono  ferry,  on  the 
mainland  opposite. 

3.  A  company  of  tories  from  the  interior  of  South  Caro- 
lina, while  marching  to  join  the  British  forces,  were  attacked, 
Feb.  14,  by  a  body  of  militia  under  Col.  Pickens,  and  totally 
defeated.  Col.  Boyd,  their  commander,  was  killed,  and  sev- 
enty of  the  prisoners  were  condemned  to  death  as  traitors  to 
their  country.  But  only  five,  the  principal  leaders,  were 
executed. 

4.  The  British  at  the  north  were  occupied,  most  of  the 

■ 

2.  Who  was  appointed  to  the  command  of  the  American  army  in  the  south- 
ern department  ?  Describe  the  attempt  of  the  British  to  invade  South  Caro- 
lina.    To  take  Charleston. 

3.  Descrilie  the  defeat  of  the  company  of  tories.  How  many  were  executed  ? 
How  many  do  you  think  ought  to  have  been  executed? 

with  the  Creek  Indians.  An  incident  occurred  while  on  this  mission,  which,  as  it 
portrays  in  Hvely  colors  the  shrewdness  of  the  Indian,  and  the  treatment  he  has  re- 
ceived of  the  vvliites,  is  here  inserted.  One  of  the  chiefs  of  the  Creek  nation  asked 
Gen.  LincQhr  to  sit  down  on  a  loo:.  He  was  soon  after  desired  to  more  a  tittle,  to 
make  room  for  an  Indian  to  sit  down.  In  a  few  moments  he  was  requested  to 
move  still  further.  The  request  was  repeated  until  the  general  had  got  fo  the  end 
of  the  log;  when  the  chief  asked  him  to  move  a  little  further.  Lincoln  at  once  re- 
plied, '•  I  can  not,  unless  I  get  otf  the  log."  "Just  so  it  is  with  us,"  said  the  chief; 
"  you  have  moved  us  back,  and  moved  us  back,  until  we  have  got  to  the  end  of  the 
land— the  edge  of  the  water ;  and  now  you  ask  us  to  move  further."  Gen.  Lincoln 
died  at  Hingham,  in  1810. 


164 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1119, 


year,  in  various  predatory  excursions ;  ravaging  the  coasts, 
plundering  the  country,  and  slaughtering  the  inhabitants. 
Washington  could  do  little  to  prevent  these  barbarities.  He 
dared  not  divide  his  small  army,  stationed  on  both  sides  of 
the  Hudson,  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  enemy,  as  he 
would  then  subject  the  whole  to  be  destroyed.  In  May, 
Virginia  was  invaded  by  a  band  of  British  plunderers.  At 
Norfolk,  Portsmouth,  and  other  places,  a  large  quantity  of 
public  stores  and  private  property  was  carried  off  or  destroy- 
ed, to  the  amount  of  two  and  a  half  million  dollars.  Soon 
after,  the  coast  of  Connecticut  was  laid  waste  by  the  enemy. 
New  Haven  was  plundered ;  Fairfield  and  Norwalk  were 
reduced  to  ashes. 


OLD     PUT'S     ESCAPE    AT     H O R S E N K C K  , 


5.  As  the  British  approached  Horseneck,  Gen.  Putnam,* 
with  a  band  of  150  men,  and  two  pieces  of  cannon,  took  his 

4.  What  places  were  plundered — laid  waste — burned  ? 

5.  What  happened  at  a  place  called  Horseneck?  What  and  where  is 
Horseneck?  Ans.  It  is  a  village  in  Greenwich,  Fairfield  county,  Connecti- 
cut. The  precipice  that  Putnam  plunged  down  had  about  one  hundred  steps 
made  in  it,  for  the  use  of  foot  passengers. 

*  Israel  Putnam  was  born  in  Salem,  Massachusetts,  in  1718.  He  was  a  distin- 
guished soldier  of  the  French  and  Indian  wars ;  and  subsequently  acted  a  very  con- 


17'79.  '  WAR    OF    THE    REVOLUTION.  165 

station  on  a  high  hill  by  the  meeting-house.  From  this  po- 
sition he  poured  a  raking  fire  upon  the  enemy ;  but  at  length 
perceiving  that  his  little  force  was  in  danger  of  destruction, 
he  ordered  his  men  to  retreat  into  a  neighboring  swamp, 
while  he  himself  put  spurs  to  his  horse,  and  rushed  down  a 
steep  precipice  at  full  gallop.  A  musket-ball,  it  is  said, 
passed  through  his  hat ;  but  he  escaped  without  injury. 

6.  One  of  the  most  daring  and  brilliant  feats  of  the  war, 
was  the  recapture  of  Stony  Point*  on  the  Hudson.  It  had 
been  taken  from  the  Americans  and  strongly  fortified  by  the 
British,  and  was  then  garrisoned  by  600  men.  On  the 
evening  of  the  15th  of  July,  Gen.  Wayne  with  1,200  men  si- 
lently approached  the  fortress.  Having  divided  his  force  into 
two  columns,  about  midnight  a  furious  assault  was  made  at 
opposite  points.  The  garrison  opened  upon  them  a  tremen- 
dous fire  of  musketry  and  grape-shot ;  but  nothing  could 
stop  their  progress.  They  opened  their  way  with  the  bayo- 
net, scaled  the  fort,  and  the  two  columns  met  in  the  center 
of  the  works.  The  loss  of  the  British  was  sixty  killed  and 
540  taken  prisoners,  besides  a  large   amount  of  mihtary 

6.  Describe  the  capture  of  Stony  Point — Paulus  Hook.  By  what  name  is 
Paulus  Hook  now  called?  Ans.  Jersey  City.  It  is  situated  in  New  Jersey, 
opposite  to  New  York. 

spicuous  part  in  the  war  of  the  Revolution.  Being  intended  for  a  farmer,  he  re- 
ceived only  a  common  education.  He  had  a  strong  mind,  a  vigoi-ous  constitution, 
great  bodily  strength,  enterprise,  and  activity.  He  removed  to  Pomfret,  in  Con- 
necticut, in  1739,  and  in  1757  was  promoted  to  the  rank  of  major  by  the  legislature 
of  that  state.  Putnam  received  the  intelligence  of  the  battle  of  Lexington  as  he  was 
plowing  in  the  middle  of  a  field.  He  left  his  plow  there,  unyoked  his  oxen,  and 
without  changing  his  clothes,  set  off  for  the  scene  of  action.  Learning  the  situation 
of  things,  he  returned  to  Connecticut,  levied  a  regiment,  and  marched  to  Cambridge. 
He  was  now  appointed  a  major-general,  and  acted  a  very  important  part  during  the 
war.  After  the  loss  of  Fort  Montgomery,  situated  in  the  highlands  on  the  Hudson, 
Washington  determined  to  build  another  fortification,  and  he  directed  Putnam  to 
fix  upon  the  spot.  To  him  belongs  the  praise  of  having  chosen  West  Point.  On  a 
certain  occasion,  a  tory  from  the  British  army  was  detected  in  Putnam's  camp. 
Governor  Tryon  claimed  him  as  a  British  officer,  threatening  vengeance  if  he  was 
not  restored.     General  Putnam  wrote  the  followiiig  pithy  reply  : 

"  Sir, — Nathan  Palmer,  a  lieutenant  in  your  king's  service,  was  taken  in  my  camp 
as  a  spy,— he  was  tried  as  a  spy,— he  was  condemned  as  a  spy,— and  he  shall  be 
hanged  as  a  spy.  Israel  Putnam. 

"  P.  S.  Afternoon,    He  is  hanged." 

In  1779,  he  was  seized  with  a  paralytic  affliction,  which  impaired  the  activity  of 
his  body,  and  put  an  end  to  his  military  career.  He  spent  the  remainder  oi  his 
days  in  retirement,  and  died  at  Brooklyn,  Connecticut,  May  29th,  1790. 

Stony  Point  is  a  high,  rocky  point  on  the  west  bank  of  the  Hudson,  about  forty 
miles  north  of  New  York,  nearly  opposite  to  Verplank's  Point. 


166  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  lYYO, 

Stores.  The  Americans  lost  about  100.  The  British  garri- 
son at  Paulus  Hook  was  surprised,  July  19th,  by  Major  Lee, 
who  stormed  the  works,  killed  thirty,  and  took  160  prisoners. 

7.  During  the  summer,  several  successful  attempts  were 
made  against  the  Indians.  One  was  made  by  Col.  Clarke, 
of  Virginia,  who,  with  a  brave  band  of  130  men,  penetrated 
the  Indian  territory,  and  took  the  British  fort  at  St.  Vin- 
cennes,  on  the  Wabash.  To  effect  their  object,  the  troops 
had  to  endure  great  hardships.  For  several  miles  they  were 
obliged  to  wade  through  swamps,  where  the  water  was  up 
to  their  arms,  with  their  muskets  and  baggage  on  their 
heads.  When  they  arrived,  the  enemy  surrendered  without 
resistance. 

8.  An  army  of  4,000  men,  under  the  command  of  General 
Sullivan,  was  sent  against  the  savages  on  the  frontiers  of 
Pennsylvania  and  New  York.  The  Indians  every  where 
were  routed,  from  Wyoming  to  the  Gennessee.  Their  forts 
were  taken,  their  villages  burned,  their  fruit  trees  and  corn 
fields  destroyed ;  no  vestige  of  human  industry  was  permit- 
ted to  exist.  This  severe  but  necessary  punishment  kept 
the  savages  in  check  for  some  time  after. 

9.  Spain,  anxious  to  recover  Florida,  Jamaica,  and  Gib- 
raltar, declared  war  against  Great  Britain  during  the  sum- 
mer, and  soon  after,  a  large  French  and  Spanish  fleet  ap- 
peared on  the  coast  of  England ;  but  nothing  was  accom- 
plished. Early  in  the  fall,  the  French  fleet,  under  D'Estaing, 
arrived  on  the  coast  of  Georgia,  with  6,000  troops  on  board, 
and  soon  after  captured  three  British  frigates  and  a  fifty-gun 
ship.  A  plan  was  immediately  concerted  for  the  siege  of 
the  British  at  Savannah.  Gen.  Lincoln  marched  his  army 
from  Charleston,  and  united  with  the  French  soldiers  in  be- 
sieging the  city,  on  the  23d  of  September.  The  enemy  were 
soon  closely  pressed.  But  D'  Estaing,  the  French  com- 
mander, desirous  of  returning  to  the  West  Indies,  proposed 

7,  8.  What  took  place  during  the  summer  ?  There  are  two  precepts  very 
similar  in  language,  but  dissimilar  in  import — viz.,  1.  "  Do  to  others  as  you 
wish  others  to  do  to  you ;"  2.  "  Do  to  others  as  others  do  to  you."  Upon  which 
did  Sullivan  act  in  his  treatment  of  the  Indians  ? 

9.  When  did  a  French  fleet  arrive  on  the  coast  ?  What  plan  was  concerted  ? 
What  did  Lincoln  determine  to  do  l 


1779.  WAR    OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  167 

to  raise  the  siege.     Instead  of  this,  Lincohi  determined  to 
take  the  city,  if  possible,  by  storm. 

10.  On  the  9th  of  October  a  vigorous  assault  was  made, 
and  the  out-works  were  soon  carried.  But  as  they  advanced, 
the  garrison  opened  upon  them  with  such  fury,  that  the  as- 
sailants were  defeated  with  a  loss  of  1,000  men.  Among 
the  slain  was  Count  Pulaski,  a  brave  Pole,  who  had  served 
in  the  American  army  for  several  years  with  distinguished 
zeal.  But  no  one  fell  more  universally  lamented  than  the 
heroic  Sergeant  Jasper.*  Soon  after  this  defeat,  the  French 
left  the  coast,  and  the  American  forces  retired  to  Charleston. 

11.  About   this   time  a  naval  engagement   took   place. 

10.  Describe  the  attack  on  Savannah. 

11.  Describe  the  engagement  between  the  Serapis  and  Bon  Homme 
Richard. 

'  Jasper  was  one  of  the  many  youth  whose  memory  should  be  warmly  cherished 
by  every  American.  He  first  distinguished  himself  in  the  defense  of  Fort  Moultrie, 
in  South  Carohna.  Says  one  who  was  present,  "  A  ball  from  one  of  the  enemy's 
ships  carried  away  our  flag-staff.  Scarcely  had  the  stars  of  liberty  touched  the 
sand,  before  .Jasper  flew  and  snatched  them  up,  and  having  fixed  them  to  the  point 
of  his  sponfoon,  or  .«pear,  he  leaped  up  on  the  breastwork  amid  the  storm  and  fury 
of  the  battle,  and  restored  them  to  their  daring  station,  waving  his  hat  at  the  same 
time,  and  huzzaing,  '  God  save  liberty  and  viy  country  forever !'"  Jasper  had  a 
brother  who  had  joined  the  British  ;  and,  though  a  tory,  he  loved  him  with  warm 
affection.  In  company  with  his  pai'ticular  friend.  Sergeant  Newton,  Jasper  went 
to  visit  this  brother  at  Ebenezer,  a  British  post  near  Savannah.  While  there,  his 
brother  showed  him  ten  or  twelve  American  prisoners,  who  had  been  taken  as  de- 
serters, and  .were  to  be  sent  immediately  to  Savannah,  and  probably  executed. 
Among  them  was  a  lovely  young  woman,  wife  of  one  of  the  prisoners,  with  her 
child,  a  sweet  httle  boy  about  five  years  old.  Their  pitiable  condition  moved  Jas- 
per and  Newton  to  tears,  and  they  retired,  resolved  to  rescue  tliem  or  die  in  the  at- 
tempt. The  prisoners,  under  a  guard  often  men,  were  soon  sent  off  for  Savannah. 
Taking  leave  of  his  brother,  Jasper  and  his  friend  departed,  and  by  a  circuitous 
route  came  up  with  them,  and  pursued  for  several  miles,  watching  for  some  favor- 
able moment  to  effect  their  object.  Just  as  all  hope  began  to  fail,  it  occurred  to 
Jasper,  that  possibly  they  might  stop  at  a  famous  spring  about  two  miles  from  Sa- 
vannah. They  pushed  on,  and  concealed  themselves  in  the  bushes  near  the  spring. 
Soon  the  guard  and  prisoners  appeared,  and  a  halt  was  ordered.  Hope  again  in- 
spired the  heroes  in  ambush.  All  but  four  left  their  arms  by  the  side  of  the  road, 
and  proceeded  to  the  spring.  Two  were  ordered  to  keep  guard,  while  the  other 
two  armed  men  were  commanded  to  give  tlie  prisoners  drink.  These  two  set 
their  guns  against  a  tree,  and  advanced  to  the  spring,  drank  themselves,  and  filled 
their  canteens  for  the  pr)soners.  At  this  moment  Jasper  and  Newton  burst  forth 
from  the  thicket,  seized  the  muskets  standing  against  the  tree,  and  shot  down  the 
two  men  who  were  keeping  guard.  They  now  rushed  on,  and  with  the  buti  end 
of  the  muskets  leveled  two  others,  who  had  sprung  forward  to  seize  the  guns  of  the 
fallen  guard.  They  now  ordered  the  rest  to  surrender  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet, 
which  they  instantly  did.  Jasper  now  broke  off  the  handcuffs  of  the  prisoners,  and 
giving  each  one  a  musket,  marched  them  off  to  the  American  camp,  to  the  inex- 
pressible joy  and  admira^on  of  ail.  On  the  day  of  his  death  Jasper  pertbrmtd  a 
feat  of  similar  daring,  but  in  which,  unlortunateiy,  he  received  a  mortal  wound. 
He  died  like  a  Christian  soldier,  in  full  hopes  of  a  bttter  hfe 


168 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1119, 


BATTLE  BKTWKKN  THK  BON  HOMMK  AND  SKRAPIS. 

John  Pa\il  Jones,*  a  Scotchman  by  birth,  having  distin- 
guished himself  in  taking  prizes  at  sea,  was  appointed  by 
congress  a  captain  in  the  American  navy.  On  the  14th  of 
September,  he  sailed  from  a  port  in  France,  and  soon  after, 
off  the  coast  of  Scotland,  fell  in  with  the  Serapis,  a  British 
ship  of  44  guns.  The  name  of  his  own  ship,  which  carried 
40  guns,  was  Bon  Homme  Richard.  The  attack  was  made 
in  the  evening,  and  an  hour  after  the  battle  commenced,  the 
ships  approached  so  near  each  other,  that  Jones  threw  his 
grappling-irons  aboard  the  Serapis,  and  lashed  them  fast 
together. 

■  12.  A  terrible  slaughter  now  ensued.  An  incessant  dis- 
charge of  cannon  swept  their  decks,  and  frequently  both 
frigates  were  on  fire.    Amid  the  darkness  of  night,  the  scene 

12.  What  was  the  result  ?     What  did  Jones  receive  for  his  success  ? 


•  John  Paul  Jones  was  born  at  Arbington,  in  Scotland,  1747.  After  being  engaged 
some  time  in  the  merchant  service  of  Great  Britain,  he  came  to  America  at  the 
commencement  of  the  Revolution,  and  received  a  commission  in  the  navy  of  the 
United  States.  He  look  many  prizes,  and  annoyed  the  enemy's  merchant  vessels 
in  every  sea.  After  the  peace,  he  was  for  a  time  in  the  service  of  Russia.  He  died 
at  Paris  in  1792.  He  was  a  man  of  signal  talent  and  courage,  but  impetuous,  irrita- 
ble, and  harsh  in  the  exercise  of  his  authority. 


1780.  WAR   OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  169 

was  awfully  sublime.  After  a  bloody  battle  of  three  hours, 
the  British  frigate  was  surrendered.  Jones  perceiving  that 
his  own  ship  was  fast  filling  with  water,  ordered  his  men 
on  board  the  Serapis.  Soon  after  she  sunk  to  the  bottom. 
For  his  success  on  this  occasion,  Jones  received  a  golden 
sword  from  the  king  of  France,  and  a  golden  medal  from 
the  American  congress. 


EVENTS  OF  1780. 


1.  During  the  winter,  the  American  army  endured  great 
hardships  from  the  want  of  food  and  clothing.  This  suffer- 
ing resulted  mostly  from  the  circulation  of  what  was  called 
"continental  money."  To  pay  off  the  soldiers,  and  to  meet 
other  expenses,  congress  was  obliged  to  issue  a  vast  amount 
of  this  money.  At  this  time  it  had  lost  almost  all  its  value. 
Thirty  dollars  of  this  paper  was  not  worth  more  than  one 
dollar  in  silver.  The  troops,  whose  wages  were  paid  in  this 
money,  could  buy  neither  food  nor  clothing  with  it.  So 
grccit  was  the  distress,  that  some  regiments  revolted  and 
left  the  army.  But  Washington,  by  his  intreaties  with  con- 
gress, and  appeals  to  the  people  in  all  parts  of  the  country, 
saved  his  army  from  total  destruction. 

2.  The  British  army,  during  the  past  year,  had  been  rein- 
forced by  fresh  troops  from  England ;  and  Sir  Henry  CUn- 
ton  now  determined  to  invade  South  Carolina  with  a  power- 
ful force.  Accordingly  he  left  New  York,  entered  the  port 
of  Charleston,  and  on  the  first  of  April  commenced  the  siege 
of  that  city.  The  American  army  under  Gen.  Lincoln  was 
small,  compared  with  that  of  the  enemy,  which  amounted 
to  9,000  men. 

3.  But  every  exertion  was  made  to  save  the  city.  Com- 
munication with  the  country  was  kept  open  for  some  time 
by  a  detachment  stationed  at  Monk's  Corner.  This  post 
was  soon  taken,  and  the  garrison  of  the  city  found  them- 

1.  Did  you  ever  see  any  continental  money  ?     What  can  you  say  about  it? 

2.  What  did  Sir  Henry  Clinton  do? 

3.  What  was  Gen.  Lincoln  obiii^'ed  to  do  ?    What  did  Col,  Tarleton  do  ? 

15 


1*70  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  iTSO. 

selves  closely  pressed  on  all  sides.  With  no  hope  of  suc- 
cess against  a  force  so  much  superior,  on  the  12th  of  May, 
Lincoln  capitulated,  and  he  and  his  troops  became  prisoners 
of  war.  Charleston  fell ;  and  South  Carolina  lay  open  to 
the  victorious  troops  of  the  enemy.  Clinton's  object  now 
wae  to  make  himself  master  of  the  whole  state.  Three 
expeditions  which  he  sent  into  the  country  were  highly  suc- 
cessful. Georgetown  and  Ninety-Six  were  seized ;  and 
Tarleton*  spread  ten'or  and  death  wherever  he  passed.  A 
body  of  400  Americans,  under  Col.  Buford,  the  last  frag- 
ment of  the  southern  army,  was  attacked  by  Tarleton,  de- 
feated, and,  after  they  had  laid  down  their  arms,  were  en- 
tirely cut  to  pieces,  while  crying  for  quarter.  All  further 
resistance  now  was  hopeless,  and  the  whole  state  submitted 
to  British  authority.  Early  in  June,  Clinton,  with  a  large 
body  of  troops,  embarked  for  New  York,  leaving  Cornwallis, 
with  an  army  of  4,000  men,  to  complete  the  conquest  of  the 
southern  states. 

4.  Although  the  people  were  obliged  to  submit  to  royal 
authority,  they  were  ready,  on  the  first  favorable  opportunity, 
to  seize  their  arms  in  defense  of  their  country.  Col.  Sum- 
ter,! with  a  band  of  devoted  patriots,  attacked  and  defeated 
several  detachments  of  the  enemy.     At  length  an  army  of 

4,  What  is  said  of  Colonel  Sumter  ? 

*  Col.  Tarleton  was  born  in  Liverpool,  England.  He  was  brave,  fearless,  and 
often  cruel  lo  those  who  fell  into  his  power.  In  the  battle  of  Cowpens,  Col.  William 
Washington  commanrled  the  cavalry,  and  contributed  much  to  the  victory.  In  the 
Ilight  of  Tarleton's  troops,  Washington  was  foremost  in  the  pursuit.  He  and  his 
men  cut  down  great  numbers  of  the  enemy,  and  even  Tarleton  received  a  severe 
wound  in  his  hand  by  a  blow  from  Washington's  saber.  Tarleton  could  never  bear 
to  hear  him  prai.sed  after  this.  On  a  certain  occasion,  he  observed,  "  I  am  told  that 
Colonel  Washington  is  a  poor,  ignorant  fellow,  and  can  neither  read  nor  write." 
"  Be  that  as  it  may,"  said  a  lady  present,  "you  will  allow,  Colonel,  that  he  can  make 
his  mark,"  pointing  at  the  same  time  to'Tarleton's  wounded  hand.  When  some 
ladies  in  Charleston  were  eulogizing  Colonel  Washington,  "  I  would  be  very  glad," 
said  Tarleton,  "  to  get  a  sight  of  liim.  I  have  heard  much  talk  of  him,  but  have 
never  yet  seen  him."  "  Had  you  looked  behind  you  at  the  battle  of  Cowpens,"  said 
one,  "you  might  have  enjoyed  that  pleasure."  Tarleton  returned  to  England  after 
the  war,  and  was  tor  some  time  a  member  of  parliament. 

t  Thomas  Sumter  was  Born  in  17.35.  He  was  ever  devoted  to  the  freedom  of  his 
country,  and  the  enterprises  which  he  conducted  were  tor  the  most  part  crowned 
with  brilliant  siiccess.  "  I  shall  be  glad,"  says  Cornwallis  in  a  letter  to  Tarleton, 
"to  hear  that  Sumter  is  in  no  condition  to  give  us  further  trouble.  He  certainly 
has  been  our  greatest  plague  in  this  country."  He  died  in  1S32,  near  Camden, 
South  Carolina. 


1780.  WAR    OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  Ill 

4,000  men,  a  part  of  whom  had  marched  from  New  Jersey, 
assembled  in  North  CaroUna,  under  Gen.  Gates.  This  force 
advanced  toward  the  enemy  as  far  as  Clermont.  The  Brit- 
ish army  was  then  at  Camden,  under  Cornwallis  and 
Rawdon. 

5.  The  two  armies,  each  making  an  attempt  to  surprise 
the  other,  on  the  15th  of  August  met,  in  the  darkness  of  the 
night,  about  eight  miles  from  Camden.  Next  morning  the 
British  made  a  furious  charge  upon  the  militia,  and  soon  put 
them  to  flight.  The  continentals,  or  the  regular  American 
troops,  stood  the  charge  with  great  bravery,  and  fought  with 
desperation,  led  on  by  Baron  de  Kalb ;  *  but  at  length  they 
were  pressed  in  front  and  rear,  and  their  ranks  being  broken, 
they  fled  in  disorder.  The  brave  De  Kalb  fell  in  this  en- 
gagement with  eleven  wounds.  The  loss  of  the  Americans 
was  supposed  to  be  about  1,000  men  ;  that  of  the  enemy  325. 

6.  Sumter,  who  had  been  very  successful  against  the  en- 
emy, when  he  heard  that  Gates  was  defeated,  fled  with  the 
prisoners  and  booty  he  had  taken.  But  he  was  pursued  by 
the  furious  Tarleton,  and  being  surprised  in  the  night,  his 
forces  were  killed  or  scattered,  and  the  prisoners  retaken. 
Sumter,  with  a  few  men,  escaped  into  North  Carolina.  In 
another  part  of  the  state,  Gen.  Marion,!  a  determined  patriot, 

5.  What  happened  on  the  15th  of  August  ? 

6.  What  did  Gen.  Marion  do  ? 


•  Baron  De  Kalb  was  born  in  Germany,  in  1717.  When  youn?  he  entered  into 
the  service  of  France,  and  came  here  a.s  a  French  ojficer  in  1777.  He  offered  his 
services  to  confjress,  and  was  .soon  made  a  major-j^eneral.  After  the  surrender  of 
Lincoln,  Ue  Kalb  was  sent  with  2,000  continentals  to  operate  apainst  the  British ; 
and  had  he  been  left  aloue,  he  would  have  g:iven  a  ^ood  account  of  those  noble 
troops.  But  congress  hurried  off  the  envious  and  jealous  Gates,  who  at  once 
changed  the  cautious  and  skillful  counse  of  De  Kalb,  and  spurning  his  advice,  rushed 
iuto  the  arms  of  the  British,  and  had  his  army  cut  to  pieces.  That  day  De  Kalb 
was  a  host,  and  his  men  fought  worthy  of  .such  a  leader.  While  they  were  sustain- 
ing the  shock  of  the  whole  British  army,  Gates  put  spurs  to  his  horse,  and  left  the 
field.  The  brave,  the  noble  De  Kalb,  on  foot,  at  the  head  of  his  men,  again  and  again 
Jed  them  to  the  charge.  But  at  length  he  fell,  pierced  with  eleven  wounds.  Noble, 
generous,  and  frank— De  Kalb  had  the  heart  of  a  hon,  in  a  breast  where  dwelt  every 
generous  emotion. 

t  Francis  Marion  was  a  brave  and  able  officer.  He  was  born  near  Georgetown, 
South  Carolina,  in  1732.  He  died  in  179.").  While  General  Marion  was  in  camp, 
near  Grorgetown,  a  British  officer  was  sent  to  him.  to  make  some  arrangements 
about  the  e.xchange  of  prisoners.  Instead  of  finding  Marion,  as  he  expected,  "some 
stout  figure  of  a  warrior,  of  martiul  aspect  and  flaming  regimentals,  he  beheld  in 
our  hero  a  swarthy,  smoke-dried  little  lu-.m,  with  scarce  enough  of  threadbare  home- 
spun to  cover  his  nakedness !    And  in  place'of  tall  ranks  of  gayly  dressed  soldiers, 


172  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1780. 

with  a  brave  party  of  horsemen,  defeated  many  scouting 
parties  of  the  enemy.  To  furnish  his  troops  with  swords, 
he  cut  up  the  saws  of  the  saw-mills,  and  by  concealing  his 
men  in  the  swamps  and  thickets,  he  avoided  a  regular  en- 
gagement with  the  British  forces. 

7.  In  this  state  of  things  at  the  south,  many  of  the  people 
turned  tories,  and  joined  the  British  army.  A  large  body  of 
these  men,  under  Major  Ferguson,  a  British  officer,  having 
committed  the  most  atrocious  excesses,  was  attacked  by  a 
select  band  of  mounted  riflemen,  October  7th.  The  battle 
was  fought  on  the  top  of  King's  Mountain,  where  Ferguson 
had  posted  his  men.  The  attack  was  furious,  and  the  en- 
emy defended  themselves  with  great  bravery,  till  their  leader 
fell,  and  then  threw  down  their  arms.  About  300  were  killed 
or  wounded,  and  850  taken  prisoners.  The  Americans  lost 
about  200. 

8.  About  this  time.  General  Gates,  on  account  of  his  ill 
success,  was  superseded  in  his  command  at  the  south  by 

7.  What  took  place  on  the  top  of  King's  Mountain? 

8.  By  whom  was  General  Gates  succeeded  ? 

he  beheld  a  handful  of  sun-burned,  yellow-legged  militiamen,  some  roasting  pota- 
toes, and  some  asleep  with  their  black  firelocks  and  powderhorns  lying  by  them  on 
the  logs  !"  After  every  thing  was  settled  to  his  satisfaction,  the  officer  took  up  his 
hat  to  retire.  "  Oh  no  !"  said  Marion,  "  it  is  now  about  our  time  of  dining ;  and  I 
hope,  sir,  you  will  give  us  the  pleasure  of  your  company  to  dinner."  The  dinner 
to  which  he  alluded  was  no  other  than  a  heap  of  sweet  potatoes,  that  were  very 
snugly  roasting  under  the  embers,  and  which  the  servant  Tom,  with  his  pine-stick 
poker,  soon  liberated  from  their  ashy  confinement ;  and  having  cleansed  them  of 
the  ashes,  partly  by  blowing  them  with  his  breath,  and  partly  by  brushing  them 
with  the  sleeve  of  his  old  cotton  shirt,  he  piled  some  of  the  best  on  a  large  piece  of 
bark,  and  placed  them  between  the  British  officer  and  Marion.  "  I  fear,"  sftid  the 
general,  "our  dinner  will  not  prove  quite  so  palatable  to  you  as  I  could  wish  ;  but 
it  is  the  best  we  have.  I  suppose  it  is  not  equal  to  your  style  of  dining."  "  No,  in- 
deed," said  the  otScer  ;  "  and  this,  1  imagine,  is  one  of  your  accidental  dinners.  In 
general,  no  doubt,  you  live  a  great  deal  better."  "  Rather  worse,"  replied  Marion, 
"for  often  we  don't  get  enough  of  this."  "Heavens!"  rejoined  the  officer.  "But 
probably  what  you  lose  in  meal  you  make  up  in  malt;  though  stinted  in  provisions, 
you  draw  noble  joa!/."  "  Not  a  cent,  sir,"  said  the  general,  "  not  a  cent  "  "Heavens 
and  earth  !  then  you  must  be  in  a  bad  hox— all  fighting  and  no  pay!  and  no  provi-  \ 
sions  hut  potatoes !"  "  Why,  sir,"  replied  Marion,  "  these  things  depend  on  feeling ; 
the  heart  is  all :  when  that  is  much  interested,  a  man  can  do  any  thing.  Many  a 
youth  would  think  it  hard  to  indent  himself  a  slave  for  fourteen  years.  But  let  him 
be  over  head  and  ears  in  love,  and  with  such  a  beauteous  sweetheart  as  Rachel,  and 
he  will  think  no  more  of  fourteen  years'  servitude  than  young  Jacob  did.  Well  now, 
this  is  exactly  my  case.  I  am  in  love  ;  and  my  sweetheart  is  LIBERTY.  Be  that 
heavenly  nymph  my  companion,  and  these  wilds  and  woods  shall  have  charms  be- 
yond London  and  Paris  in  slavery."  The  young  officer  was  so  struck  with  Mari- 
on's sentiments,  that  he  never  rested  untU  he  threw  up  his  commission,  and  retired 
from  the  British  service. — Life  of  Marion. 


1780.  WAR    OF   THE    REVOLUTION.  l73 

jGren.  Greene.  The  army  was  now  at  Charlotte.  N.  C,  and 
poorly  supplied  with  food  and  clothing.  Greene  soon  de- 
vised plans  for  harassing  the  enemy,  and  cutting  off  their 
stores  ;  but  no  general  engagement  took  place  till  after  the 
commencement  of  another  year. 

9.  We  must  now  turn  to  the  affairs  of  the  northern  de- 
partment. Washington's  army  was  still  lying  in  camp, 
watching  the  movements  of  the  enemy,  at  New  York.  A 
French  fleet  had  arrived  in  New  England  with  an  army  of 
5,000  soldiers.  But  a  more  powerful  fleet  from  England 
prevented  any  combined  operations  against  the  British  forces. 
At  this  time  the  prospects  of  the  country  were  truly  alarm- 
ing. Defeat  disheartened  the  American  forces  at  the  south, 
and  poverty  and  wretchedness  at  the  north. 

10.  In  this  gloomy  state  of  affairs,  the  treachery  of  Arnold 
came  to  light.  After  the  evacuation  of  Philadelphia  by  the 
British,  in  1778,  Arnold,  not  having  fully  recovered  from  his 
wounds  at  Saratoga,  was  stationed  there  as  military  gov- 
ernor. Soon  after,  he  married  Miss  Shippen*  from  one  of 
the  tory  families  in  that  city.  His  bravery  and  success  in 
battle  had  given  him  a  great  reputation  in  the  army  and 
nation,  and  hitherto  he  had  been  one  of  the  most  intrepid 
defenders  of  American  liberty.  He  now  hired  a  splendid 
mansion,  and,  by  a  course  of  luxury  and  excess,  soon  in- 
volved himself  deeply  in  debt.  To  support  his  extravagance, 
he  appropriated  the  public  money  to  his  own  use.  He  was 
accused  of  this,  tried  by  a  court-martial,  and  sentenced  to  be 
reprimanded  by  the  commander-in-chief 

11.  At  this  his  pride  was  wounded,  and  he  resolved  on 
revenge.  Some  time  afterward,  concealing  his  purpose,  he 
applied  to  Washington  for  command  of  the  very  important 

9.  What  were  now  the  prospects  of  the  country  ? 

10.  What  was  the  conduct  of  Arnold  in  Philadelphia  ? 

11.  What  important  post  was  placed  under  his  command?  What  did  he 
propose  to  the  British  general  ?  Who  was  sent  to  mature  the  plan  for  the 
surrender  of  West  Point  ? 


*  Miss  Shippen  was  the  daughter  of  Edward  Shippen,  a  loyalist  or  tory,  but  highly 
respectable,  and  afterward  chief  justice  of  Pennsylvania.  Miss  Shippen  was  but 
eighteen  years  old,  beautiful,  gay,  attractive,  and  ambitious.  She  had  been  admired 
and  flattered  by  the  British  officers,  and  was  intimately  acquainted  with  Major 
Andre.    She  corresponded  with  him  after  the  British  army  had  gone  to  New  York. 

15* 


1*74  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1780. 

Station  at  West  Point.*  His  wish  was  granted,  Aug.  3d, 
and  he  immediately  wrote  to  Chnton,  the  British  general, 
and  proposed  to  deliver  the  post  into  his  hands.  To  accom- 
plish this  object,  Major  Andre  f  left  New  York,  sailed  up 
the  Hudson,  and  in  the  night,  near  West  Point,  held  a  pri- 
vate interview  with  Arnold,  and  received  from  him  a  full 
description  of  the  fort,  the  garrison,  and  the  plan  to  be  pur- 
sued. It  was  agreed  that  Arnold  should  receive  30,000 
pounds  sterling,  and  the  rank  of  brigadier-general  in  the 
British  army. 

12.  When  Andre  was  ready  to  return,  he  found  that  the 
Vulture,  the  vessel  in  which  he  came,  had  been  compelled  to 
move  down  the  river.  He  now  endeavored  to  reach  New  York 
by  land.  Having  received  a  pass  from  Arnold,  he  assumed 
the  name  of  John  Anderson^  and  set  out  to  return  under  the 
disguise  of  a  traveler.  Having  safely  passed  all  the  Ameri- 
can posts  or  guards,  just  before  he  reached  New  York,  he 
was  stopped  by  three  militiamen,  whom  he  supposed  to  be  a 
British  guard.  Apprehending  no  danger,  instead  of  showing 
his  passport,  he  confessed  himself  a  British  officer  on  impor- 
tant business,  and  wished  to  proceed  on.  He  was  immedi- 
ately arrested,  Sept.  23d  ;  and  finding  himself  in  the  hands 
of  the  Americans,  he  offered  his  purse,  his  watch,  and  any 
reward  they  might  ask,  if  he  might  be  permitted  to  pass. 

13.  Unwilling  to  betray  their  country  for  gold,  they  be- 
gan to  search  his  person,  and  finding  papers  in  his  boot, 
they  led  him  prisoner  to  Col.  Jameson,  who  was  stationed 
on  the  American  lines.  By  the  urgent  request  of  Andre, 
Jameson,  suspecting  no  treason,  immediately  made  known 
to  Arnold  that  Anderson  was  taken  prisoner.    Arnold,  aware 

12.  What  was  the  result?  By  whom  was  Andre  stopped?  What  were 
their  names  ?  Ans.  John  Paulding,  David  Williams,  and  Isaac  Vanwert. 

13.  What  did  Arnold  now  do  ? 

*  West  Point,  a  village  of  New  York,  and  military  post  on  the  west  bank  of  the 
Hudson,  or  North  river,  where  it  passes  through  the  Highlands,  53  miles  by  water 
above  New  York,  and  UK)  below  Albany.  During  the  revolutionary  war  this  point 
was  strongly  fortified,  and  deemed  one  of  the  most  important  fortresses  in  America. 
Most  of  the  former  works  are  now  in  ruins.  A  military  academy  was  established 
here  in  1S02.  The  term  of  study  is  four  years.  The  number  of  cadets,  or  scholars, 
is  limited  to  250. 

t  See  National  Preceptor.  Lesson  29. 


1780. 


WAR    OF    THE    KEVOLUTION. 


175 


CAPTURE     OF     MAJOR     ANDRE. 

of  his  danger,  fled  from  his  post,  and  joined  the  British 
army.  Andre  was  tried  as  a  spy  by  a  court-martial  at 
Tappan,  convicted,  and  hung,  October  2d.  He  was  a  young 
man  of  fine  talents,  and  of  a  noble,  ingenuous  disposition. 
It  is  said  that  Washington  even  wept  when  he  saw  him  led 
forth  to  be  executed.  Sir  Henry  Clinton  exerted  all  his 
power  to  save  his  life.  But  the  safety  of  the  country  de- 
manded his  death.  Great  exertions  were  made  to  arrest 
Arnold,  but  without  success.* 


*  This  hazardous  enterprise  was  undertaken  by  an  officer,  under  General  Lee, 
by  the  name  of  John  Champe,  a  native  of  Virginia,  and  a  man  of  great  courage  and 
perseverance.  To  accomplish  his  object,  it  was  necessary  for  him  to  desert  the 
American  catnp,  go  to  New  York,  and  join  the  British.  Having  matured  the  plan 
with  Major  Lte,  Cliampe  mounted  his  horse  about  eleven  o'clock  at  night,  and 
stealing  silently  away,  stt  out  for  New  York.  As  he  was  passing  the  lines,  one  of 
the  patrol  hailed  him ;  but  putting  spurs  to  his  horse,  he  made  his  escape.  The 
captain  of  the  guard  immediately  waited  on  Lee,  and  informed  him  that  one  of  the 
dragoons  had  deserted  the  camp.  Lee,  wishing  to  conceal  the  flight  of  Champe, 
made  as  much  delay  as  possible  in  furnishing  written  orders  for  the  pursuit.  About 
an  hour  after  Champe  had  started,  a  company  of  pursuers  set  off  on  the  chase.  By 
frequently  examining  the  road  they  kept  on  his  track,  and  in  the  morning,  a  few 
miles  from  New  York,  they  descried  the  deserter  about  half  a  mile  distant.  Champe, 
who  was  on  the  lookout,  perceived  his  pursuers  at  the  same  time.  A  close  pursuit 
now  continued  for  several  miles,  till  Champe,  fearing  he  should  be  overtaken,  drew 
near  to  the  Hudson,  threw  himself  from  his  horse,  lashed  his  valise  to  his  shoul- 
ders, and  calling  loudly  to  some  British  in  boats  at  no  great  distance,  he  plunged 
into  the  river.  After  a  few  shot  upon  his  pursuers,  the  British  took  him  on  board, 
and  soon  carried  him  to  New  York.   When  the  pursuers  returned  to  head-quaxters 


176  HISTORY   OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1780, 

14.  Arnold  published  an  address  to  the  American  army, 
in  which  he  reproached  congress,  and  endeavored  to  induce 
the  soldiers  and  officers  to  join  the  ranks  of  the  enemy. 
But  his  address  was  regarded  with  the  utmost  contempt. 
His  character  was  now  branded  with  infamy,  and  detested 
wherever  it  was  known.  He  stands  alone,  among  all  the 
officers  of  the  Revolution,  as  a  traitor  to  the  cause  of  his 
country. 

15.  The  American  soldiers  in  their  winter  quarters  again 
suffered  all  the  miseries  of  famine  and  nakedness.  Their 
wants  were  not  supplied  till  they  had  revolted  and  threat- 
ened to  desert  the  camp.  One  body  of  1,300  Pennsylvania 
troops,  rendered  desperate  by  their  sufferings,  left  their  quar- 
ters at  Morristown,  and  set  out  for  Philadelphia,  to  demand 
redress  of  their  wrongs.  One  officer,  in  attempting  to  op- 
pose their  designs,  was  killed.  At  length  Gen.  Wayne  ap- 
peared in  front  of  the  line,  and  presenting  his  pistol,  threat- 
ened to  fire.  They  charged  their  bayonets  and  said,  "  We 
love  and  respect  you ;  but  if  you  fire,  you  are  a  dead  man. 
Do  not  mistake  us.  We  are  not  going  to  the  enemy.  On 
the  contrary,  were  they  now  to  appear,  you  should  see  us 
fight  under  your  orders  with  as  much  resolution  and  alacrity 

14.  How  was  his  address  regarded  by  the  Americans  ? 

15.  What  was  the  situation  of  the  soldiers  in  their  winter  quarters?  How 
many  started  off  in  a  body  for  Philadelphia?  Why?  What  did  General 
Wayne  do  ? 

with  Champe's  horse,  the  agony  of  Major  Lee,  for  a  moment,  was  past  description, 
lest  the  faitliful,  lionorable,  intrepid  Champe  had  fallen.  But  his  fears  were  soon 
removed,  and  he  hastened  to  inform  Wasiiington  of  the  success,  thus  far,  of  his 
plan,  champe,  shortly  after  his  arrival  in  New  York,  enlisted  into  Arnold's  legion, 
and  by  careful  observation,  soon  became  well  acquainted  with  the  habits  of  the 
general.  He  discovered  that  it  was  his  custom  to  return  home  about  twelve  every 
night,  and  that  before  going  to  bed,  he  always  visited  the  garden.  Having  found 
two  companions,  wlio  entered  fully  into  his  plans,  Champe  proposed  to  seize  Arn- 
old in  the  garden,  gag  him,  convey  him  through  the  alleys  and  streets  to  a  boat, 
which  should  be  in  readiness  to  carry  him  across  the  river  to  Hoboken  ;  and  in  case 
of  being  questioned,  represent  Arnold  as  a  drunken  soldier,  whom  they  were  car- 
rying to  the  guard-house.  Champe  communicated  his  plan  to  Lee,  who,  on  the 
night  appointed,  repaired  to  Hoboken,  ardently  hoping  to  meet  his  friend  there  with 
the  traitor.  But  unfortunately  it  happened,  that  on  the  very  day  preceding  that 
night,  Arnold  had  removed  his  quarters  to  another  part  of  the  city,  and  that  Champe, 
with  the  other  soldiers,  had  been  ordered  on  board  of  the  fleet  destined  for  the  ui- 
vasion  of  Virginia.  Nor  did  he  escape  from  the  British  service  till  months  after- 
ward. At  length,  seizing  a  favorable  opportunity,  he  deserted  the  camp  of  the  en- 
emy, and  returning  to  the  American  army,  was  received  by  Lee  and  by  Washington 
with  many  marks  of  gratitude  and  honor.— iiee's  Memoirs. 


1Y81.  TERMINATION    OF    THE    WAR.  lYY 

as  ever.  But  we  will  be  amused  no  longer.  We  are  deter- 
mined to  obtain  what  is  our  just  due."  Saying  this,  they 
proceeded  on  their  march. 

16.  When  they  arrived  at  Princeton,  three  emissaries  from 
CUnton  met  them,  and  tried  to  hire  them  to  join  the  British 
army.  They  at  once  seized  them  as  spies,  dehvered  them 
over  to  Wayne,  and  they  were  immediately  executed.  The 
soldiers  were  soon  met  by  a  committee  from  congress,  who 
satisfied  their  demands,  and  persuaded  them  to  return  to  the 
camp.  They  received  their  wages  in  specie,  and  exhibited 
great  manifestations  of  joy.*  For  a  long  time  the  Dutch 
had  been  jealous  of  the  naval  superiority  of  Great  Britain, 
and  had  encouraged  and  protected  American  privateers.  In 
consequence  of  this,  the  British  government  declared  war 
against  Holland,  Dec.  20th,  and  thus  became  involved  in 
war  with  three  powerful  nations  of  Europe — France,  Spain, 
and  Holland.     Thus  closed  the  events  of  1780. 


EVENTS  OF  1781,  AND  CLOSE  OF  THE  WAR. 

1.  Soon  after  General  Greene  f  took  command  of  the 
American  forces  at  the  south,  he  sent  out  General  Morgan 

16.  What  was  the  result  of  this  movement?     What  war  was  declared? 
1.  What  did  Gen.  Greene  do  ?     Who  was  sent  in  pursuit  of  Morgan  ? 

*  It  is  difficult  for  us,  at  this  time,  to  realize  the  wretched  condition  of  the  Amer- 
ican army.  Without  pay,  without  proper  clothing  and  food,  they  felt  that  their 
sufferings  were  intolerable.  This  mutiny  aroused  the  attention  ol  congress  to  the 
wants  and  privations  of  the  troops,  and  measures  were  taken  for  their  relief  The 
most  efficient  aid  at  this  crisis  was  derived  from  the  exertions  of  Robert  Morris, 
a  wealthy  merchant  of  Philadelphia.  He  was  the  great  financier  of  the  Revolution. 
By  his  advice  taxation  was  resorted  to  ;  and  in  1781,  the  Bank  of  North  America, 
the  oldest  moneyed  institution  in  the  United  States,  was  established  by  a  charter 
from  congress,  under  the  supervision  of  Robert  Morris.  This  bank  exerted  a  highly 
beneficial  influence  upon  the  currency  and  upon  public  credit.  To  him  the  army 
— the  nation— was  greatly  indebted  ;  for  he  used  his  own  ample  private  fortune, 
and  his  personal  credit,  to  sustain  the  government.  He  issued  his  own  notes  to  the 
amount  of  ONE  million  four  hundred  thousand  dollars,  which  were  all  paid. 
These  were  the  sinews  of  war,  without  which  Cornwallis  would  not  have  been  cap- 
tured. It  is  said  the  Americans  owed  as  much  to  his  financial  operations  as  to  tne 
negotiations  of  Franklin,  or  even  the  arms  of  Washington. 

t  Nathaniel  Greene  was  born  in  Warwick,  Rhode  Island,  in  1741.  While  a  boy, 
his  fondness  for  learning  was  such  that  he  devoted  all  the  time  he  could  spare  to  its 
acquisition,  and  .spent  all  the  money  he  earned  in  purchasing  books.  He  was  early 
distinguished  for  natural  talents,  and  in  such  estimation  was  his  character  held,  that 
he  was  elected  a  member  of  the  state  legislature.    In  1776,  he  was  appointed  a 


178  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1781. 

with  about  1,000  men,  to  check  the  devastations  of  the  tories 
and  British  in  the  western  parts  of  South  CaroHna.  Corn- 
walHs  perceiving  this  movement,  sent  Tarleton,  with  1,100 
men,  in  pursuit  of  him.  Morgan,*  finding  his  antagonist  su- 
perior in  force,  retreated  as  far  as  Cowpens,t  where,  finding 
himself  closely  pursued,  he  put  his  men  in  readiness  to  meet 
the  enemy. 

2.  On  the  17th  of  January,  Tarleton,  confident  of  victory, 
drew  up  his  troops,  and  led  them  on  to  the  charge.  Mor- 
gan's militia  broke '  and  fled.  His  regular  troops  stood  the 
shock,  and  fought  with  great  ardor.  Soon  the  enemy  pressed 
on,  and  Morgan  ordered  a  retreat.  In  the  pursuit,  the  Brit- 
ish were  thrown  into  disorder,  and  the  continentals  turning 
upon  them,  cut  them  down  with  great  slaughter.  The  en- 
emy were  defeated  with  a  loss  of  300  killed  or  wounded,  and 
500  taken  prisoners,  with  all  his  artillery  and  baggage. 
Of  the  Americans  only  twelve  men  were  killed,  and  sixty 
wounded.  This  was  one  of  the  severest  conflicts  during  the 
war.  The  result  was  in  the  highest  degree  mortifying  to 
Tarleton,  and  surprising  to  Cornwallis. 

3.  Immediately  after  this  victory,  Morgan  set  off  with  his 

2.  Describe  the  battle  of  Cowpens. 

3.  Describe  the  movements  of  Morgan  and  Cornwallis. 

major-general,  and  distinguished  himself  in  the  battles  of  Trenton,  Princeton,  and 
Germantown.  After  the  disasters  which  attended  the  American  arms  in  South 
Carolina,  he  was  appointed  to  supersede  General  Gates.  He  took  the  command  in 
the  southern  department,  December  4th,  1780.  The  ability,  prudence,  and  firmuess 
which  he  here  displayed,  have  caused  him  to  be  ranked,  in  the  scale  of  our  revolu- 
tionary generals,  second  only  to  Washington.  After  the  close  of  the  war,  he  re- 
turned to  Rhode  Island,  and  in  1785,  removed  with  his  family  to  Georgia,  where  he 
died,  in  1786. 

*  Daniel  Morgan  was  born  in  New  Jersey,  in  1737,  and  removed  to  Virginia  in 
1755.  He  was  wounded  in  Braddock's  defeat,  and  in  the  commencement  of  the 
revolutionary  war,  he  was  appointed  by  congress  captain  of  a  rille  company,  with 
which  he  marched  to  Boston.  He  was  with  Montgomery  in  the  memorable  expe- 
dition against  Quebec,  in  1775,  and  no  officer  distinguished  himself  more  on  this  oc- 
casion than  Morgan.  He  was  with  Gates  at  Saratoga,  and  contributed  materially 
to  the  glorious  triumph  obtained  over  General  Burgoyne,  though  Gates  neglected 
to  speak  of  his  merit.  He  afterward  served  under  Gates  and  Greene  in  the  cam- 
paign at  the  south.  After  the  battle  of  Cowpens,  Morgan  differed  in  opinion  with 
Greene  as  to  the  route  to  be  taken  in  his  retreat;  but  yielding  to  the  wishes  of  the 
commander,  when  the  two  divisions  of  the  army  united  at  Guilford  court-house,  he 
left  the  service — it  is  said,  in  disgust— and  devoted  himself  to  the  improvement  of 
his  farm  in  Virginia.  He  was  afterward  a  member  of  congress,  and  died  at  Win- 
chester, Virginia,  in  1799. 

t  Cowpens,  a  town  in  the  northern  part  of  South  Carolina,  in  Union  county. 


1781. 


TERMINATION    OF   THE    WAR. 


179 


BATTLE     OF    COWPENS. 


trophies  on  c^.  rapid  march  toward  Virginia.  Cornwallis,  en- 
raged at  so  great  a  loss,  determined  to  cut  them  off  before 
they  had  crossed  the  Catawba  river.  For  this  purpose  he 
destroyed  all  his  superfluous  baggage,  and  then,  on  the  19th 
of  January,  commenced  his  remarkable  pursuit  of  Morgan. 
For  twelve  days  the  chase  was  so  close,  that  the  Americans 
crossed  the  river  Catawba  only  two  hours  before  the  British 
arrived,  and  encamped  on  the  opposite  side.  Before  the 
next  morning  a  heavy  rain  fell,  which  made  the  ford  impas- 
sable. Three  days  after,  Cornwallis  crossed  the  river  and 
continued  the  chase. 

4.  Greene,  hearing  of  Morgan's  victory,  and  of  the  pur- 
suit of  Cornwallis,  left  the  main  body  of  his  army  on  the 
Pedee,  under  Gen.  Huger,  with  orders  to  march  toward  Vir- 
ginia, and  rode  150  miles  across  the  country,  and  joined 
Morgan  Jan.  31st.  He  now  took  the  chief  command,  and 
continued  the  retreat ;  but  before  his  army  had  all  crossed 
the  river  Yadkin,  the  British  appeared  and  cut  off  part  of  his 
baggage.  That  night  a  flood  of  rain  made  this  river  also 
impassable.     The  Americans  now  thought  themselves  spe- 

4.  Describe  the  race  of  the  British  and  Americans  through  North  Carolina, 


180  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1781. 

cially  favored  of  Heaven.  But  soon  the  enemy  forded  the 
river,  and  recommenced  pursuit.  The  race  was  now  for  the 
river  Dan,  more  than  100  miles  distant.  The  last  twenty- 
four  hours  the  Americans  marched  forty  miles,  and  their 
boats  had  scarcely  reached  the  northern  shore,  when  the  foe 
appeared  on  the  opposite  side. 

5.  The  British,  vexed  and  worn  out  with  fatigue,  now  | 
gave  up  the  chase,  and  retired  to  Hillsborough,  N.  C.  Dur- 
ing this  retreat  the  Americans  were  in  great  distress  for 
want  of  food  and  shoes.  Their  bare  feet  marked  the  frozen  > 
ground  with  blood ;  *  and  even  their  general  was  glad  to 
receive  a  crust  of  bread  from  a  common  soldier.  In  Vir- 
ginia the  army  was  recruited,  and  strengthened  with  a  force 
of  militia. 

6.  As  soon  as  Greene  had  rested  his  troops,  he  returned 
to  North  Carolina  with  an  army  of  4,500  men.  Soon  after 
several  bands  of  tories  were  surprised  and  cut  to  pieces.  On 
the  15th  of  March,  Greene  reached  Guilford  court-house,t 
and  on  the  same  day  was  attacked  by  Cornwall  is.  The 
battle  was  desperately  fought  for  two  hours,  when  the 
Americans  fell  back  several  miles.  The  loss  of  the  Amer- 
icans, in  killed  and  wounded,  was  about  400,  while  that  of 
the  British  was  600.  Although  Cornwallis  claimed  the 
victory,  he  retreated,  closely  pursued  by  Greene  for  some  dis- 
tance, when  the  latter  filed  off  toward  South  Carolina,  foE  i 
the  purpose  of  driving  the  British  from  their  posts  in  thai  I 
state.  Greene  at  length  reached  Hobkirk's  hill,  about  one  ' 
mile  from  Lord  Rawdon's  post  at  Camden.  Here  he  was 
attacked  on  the  25th  of  April,  and  at  first  the  Americans 
were  successful ;  but  the  Maryland  regiment  falling  into 
confusion  by  a  vigorous  charge  of  the  enemy,  Greene  was 
obliged  to  draw  off  his  forces.  The  loss  was  about  250  on 
each  side. 

5.  What  is  said  of  the  Americans  during  this  retreat  ? 

6.  Where  were  battles  fought  ? 


*  About  this  time,  as  General  Greene  was  passing  a  sentinel  who  was  barefooted 
he  said  to  him.  "I  fear,  my  jrood  fellow,  you  suffer  much  from  the  severe  cold.' 
"I  do  very  much,"  said  the  soldier  ;  "  but  1  do  not  complain.  1  know  I  should  fare 
better,  had  our  general  the  means  of  getting  supplies.  They  say,  however,  in  a  few 
days  we  shall  have  a  battle,  and  then  I  shall  take  care  to  secure  a  pair  of  shoes."    ■• 

t  Guilford  court-house,  now  Greensboro',  in  Guilford  county. 


1781.  '  TERMINATION    OF   THE    WAR.  181 

7.  About  this  time  the  brave  patriots,  Sumter  and  Marion, 
took  several  important  posts  from  the  enemy  in  South  Caro- 
hna.  Fort  Watson,  Fort  Motte,  Fort  Granby,  Georgetown, 
and  Orangeburg,  were  all  subdued  by  the  Americans,  and 
the  garrisons  taken  prisoners.  Augusta  was  taken  by  Col. 
Lee  ;  and  the  strong  post  of  the  British  at  Ninety-Six*  was 
besieged  by  the  American  army.  Hearing  that  Lord  Raw- 
don  was  advancing  with  a  strong  reinforcement,  Greene,  on 
the  18th  of  June,  made  a  violent  assault  upon  the  fort,  but 
was  repulsed  with  some  loss. 

8.  Various  marches  and  maneuvers  followed,  but  no  gen- 
eral engagement  again  occurred  till  the  8th  of  September, 
when  a  most  bloody  battle  was  fought  at  Eutaw  springs. 
The  British  at  first  were  put  to  route,  and  compelled  to  fly. 
The  victory  would  have  been  entirely  on  the  side  of  the 
Americans,  had  not  the  enemy,  in  their  flight,  thrown  them- 
selves into  a  large  brick  house,  from  which  they  cut  down 
their  pursuei,^  with  terrible  slaughter  The  number  of  killed 
and  wounded  was  in  all  1,400,  or  about  700  on  each  side. 
Victory  was  claimed  on  both  sides.  The  enemy  soon  aban- 
doned the  open  country,  and  retreated  to  Charleston.!  These 
events  ended  the  campaign  in  the  Carolinas. 

7.  What  places  were  taken  by  the  Americans  ?     What  did  Gen.  Greene  do 
on  the  18lh  of  June  ? 

8.  Describe  the  battle  of  Eutaw  springs.     Where  are  Eutaw  springs  ?  Ans. 
Near  the  Santee  river,  about  fifty  miles  north  of  Charleston. 


'  Ninety-six  was  about  150  miles  northwest  of  Charleston,  near  the  Saluda  river. 
It  was  a  place  of  great  natural  strength,  and  strongly  fortified. 

t  While  the  British  were  at  Charleston,  an  event  occurred,  which  excited  uni- 
versal sympathy  anJ  indignation.  This  was  the  execution  of  Col.  Isaac  Hayne,  of 
South  Carolina.  On  the  capitulation  of  Charleston,  May  12,  1780,  Hayne  was  taken 
prisoner,  but  was  allowed  to  return  home  on  parole,  under  an  engagement  not  to 
bear  arms.  In  1781,  he  was  required  to  bear  arms,  or  return  to  Charleston.  He 
did  the  latter,  and  was  there  threatened  with  close  confinement  unless  he  subscribed 
a  declaration  of  his  allegiance  to  the  British  king,  with  an  engagement  to  bear  arms 
in  support  of  the  royal  government.  He  subscribed  the  declaration,  but  objected  to 
the  clause  requiring  him  to  bear  arms,  afiirming  that  he  never  would  bear  arms 
against  his  country.  He  was  assured  that  this  would  not  be  required.  He  then 
returned  to  his  family,  sick  with  the  small-pox.  One  of  his  children  was  dead,  and 
his  wife  soon  expired.  He  continued  to  reside  privately  on  his  estate,  observing  his 
promises  to  the  British  government  with  the  strictest  fidehty,  until  he  was  sum- 
moned—after the  success  of  General  Greene  over  the  English — to  repair  immedi- 
ately to  the  British  standard.  This  was  a  violation  of  the  agreement  in  which  it 
was  stipulated  that  he  should  not  be  called  upon  to  bear  arms  against  his  country ; 
and  consequently,  finding  himself  released  frsm  all  obligation  of  observing  it  on  his 
part,  he  hastened  to  the  American  camp.   After  some  time  he  was  made  a  prisoner, 

16 


l82  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1781. 

9.  The  achievements  of  Greene,  with  his  brave  but  feeble 
army,  astonished  his  friends,  and  mortified  his  enemies.  With 
a  force  far  inferior  to  that  opposed  to  him,  he  had  recovered 
the  whole  of  Georgia  and  the  Carolinas,  except  the  seaports 
of  Savannah,  Charleston,  and  Wilmington,  and  the  posts  of 
Ninety-six  and  Eutaw  springs.  His  brave  men  had  endured 
the  most  complicated  sufferings  with  a  degree  of  fortitude 
worthy  of  all  commendation.  But  alas !  distress  was  not 
confined  to  the  army  alone.  The  rage  of  party  feeling 
throughout  the  south  divided  the  people,  and  drove  men  of 
the  same  vilkige,  and  often  of  the  same  family,  to  arms 
against  each  other.  The  death  of  one  man  inspired  hun- 
dreds with  the  spirit  of  revenge,  and  led  them  to  plunder, 
burn,  and  murder,  without  restraint.  Thus  the  whole  com- 
munity were  carried  away  with  a  spirit  of  mutual  jealousy 
and  deadly  strife, 

10.  Virginia  was  invaded,  in  the  month  of  January,  by  a 
strong  British  force  under  Gen.  Phihps  and  the  traitor  Arn- 
old. They  immediately  began  a  course  of  plunder,  in  which 
they  destroyed  much  valuable  property.  In  May,  Cornwal- 
lis  arrived  from  North  Carolina  with  additional  forces,  and 
took  the  chief  command.  At  this  time  Lafayette  was  at 
Richmond  with  an  army  of  3,000  men.  Cornwallis,  having 
a  much  greater  force,  now  desired  to  meet  him  in  battle. 
But  Lafayette  skillfully  avoided  him,  till  he  was  joined  by 
General  Wayne,  and  then  advanced  against  the  enemy. 
Cornwallis  immediately  retreated,  and  strongly  fortified  his 
army  at  Yorktown. 

1 1.  While  these  affairs  were  going  on  at  the  south,  Wash- 

9.  What  is  said  of  party  feeling  at  the  south  ? 

10.  When  and  by  whom  was  Virginia  invaded?  When  did  Cornwallis  ar- 
rive? Why  did  Cornwallis  retreat  to  Yorktown?  Where  is  Yorktown ?  Arts. 
It  is  in  Virginia,  on  York  river,  eleven  miles  from  its  mouth. 

taken  to  Charleston,  tried  "  for  taking  arms  against  the  British  government  after  he 
had  become  a  subject,"  and  sentenced  to  be  hung.  This  unjust  and  merciless  sen- 
tence was  put  in  "execution  on  the  4th  of  August,  1781.  Thus  fell,  in  the  bloom  of 
life,  a  brave  officer  and  good  citizen.  Hayne  was  either  a  prisoner  of  war  or  a 
British  subject.  If  a  prif;oner  of  war,  he  could  not  be  executed  for  his  lawful  con- 
duct in  the  exeixise  of  arms;  if  a  British  subject,  he  had  a  right  to  a  formal  trial. 
The  court  of  inquiry  was  not  a  court  of  trial ;  and  he  was  not  a  spy  who  might  be 
forthwith  executed.  The  elTect  of  his  execution  was  to  sharpen,  by  pity  and  re- 
venge, the  swords  of  the  Americans. 


1781.  '  TERMINATION    OF    THE    WAR.  183 

ington  had  formed  the  plan  of  attacking  Clinton  in  New 
York,  in  conjunction  with  the  French  fleet  expected  on  the 
coast  in  August.  On  the  6th  of  July,  he  was  joined  by  the 
French  army  from  Rhode  Island,  under  Count  de  Rocham- 
beau,  at  Kingsbridge,  about  fifteen  miles  from  New  York. 
Hearing,  soon  after,  that  a  large  French  fleet,  commanded 
by  the  Count  de  Grasse,  was  on  its  way  to  the  Chesapeake, 
Washington  determined  to  march  against  Cornwallis  in 
Virginia. 

12.  CHnton,  who  still  commanded  the  British  forces  at 
New  York,  had  intercepted  letters  from  Washington,  by 
which  he  discovered  his  design  of  besieging  that  city.  He 
at  once  made  preparations  for  a  vigorous  defense.  But  while 
he  was  thus  engaged,  Washington  seized  a  favorable  oppor- 
tunity to  commence  his  march  against  Cornwallis,  and  had 
crossed  the  Delaware  before  Clinton  suspected  his  design. 

13.  To  arrest  the  march  of  Washington,  and  call  him 
back  to  the  north,  Clinton  sent  the  traitor  Arnold  with  a 
strong  force  on  a  plundering  expedition  against  Connecti- 
cut, Arnold  landed  near  New  London,  and  dispatched  a 
part  of  his  force  to  attack  Fort  Griswold,  which  stood  nearly 
opposite  to  that  city,  and  guarded  the  river  Thames.  The 
brave  garrison  made  a  gallant  defense,  but  were  soon  over- 
powered. When  all  resistance  had  ceased,  a  British  officer 
inquired,  "Who  commands  this  fort?"  Col.  Ledyard,  pre- 
senting his  sword,  replied,  "  I  did,  sir,  but  you  do  now."  The 
officer  seized  the  sword,  and  plunged  it  into  Ledyard's  breast. 
Then  followed  a  horrid  massacre,  in  which  120,  nearly  all 
the  garrison,  were  literally  butchered,  Arnold  now  entered 
New  London  ;  and  after  burning  the  city,  and  destroying  a 
vast  amount  of  property,  hastily  returned  to  New  York. 

14.  In  the  mean  time,  Count  de  Grasse,  with  his  whole 


11.  What  was  Washington  doing  at  this  time  ? 

12.  What  did  Clinton  do  ?  Why  did  Washington  determine  to  march  against 
Cornwallis  in  Yorktown  ? 

1 3.  Who  was  sent  against  New  London  ?  What  was  done  at  Fort  Gris- 
wold ?  If  the  British  officer  who  commanded  the  troops  that  took  the  fort  had 
been  a  brave  and  honorable  man,  how  would  he  have  treated  Col.  Ledyard  ? 

14.  When  did  the  French  fleet  arrive  in  the  Chesapeake  ?  What  happened 
on  the  5th  of  September? 


184  HISTORY    OF  THE   UNITED   STATES.  1781. 

fleet,  entered  the  Chesapeake,  after  a  partial  engagement 
with  a  British  fleet  under  Admiral  Graves,  oflf  the  Capes. 
He  had  also  been  joined  by  the  Count  de  Barras,  with  the 
French  squadron  from  Newport.  This  gave  the  French 
fleet  full  command  of  the  Chesapeake. 

15.  Washington,  with  the  combined  American  and  French 
army,  reached  Williamsburg,  the  head-quarters  of  Lafayette, 
on  the  25th  of  September.  He  found  the  French  fleet  and 
soldiers  ready  to  co-operate  with  him  in  besieging  the  enemy. 
Cornwallis  had  a  force  of  10,000  men,  and  occupied  two 
points  of  land,  Gloucester  and  Yorktown,  each  side  of  York 
river,  Washington,  with  the  French  forces,  now  mustered 
an  army  of  16,000  men,  and  had  a  good  supply  of  cannon 
and  ammunition.  On  the  30th  of  September,  a  strong  de- 
tachment was  stationed,  in  guard  of  the  enemy,  on  Glouces- 
ter point,  while  the  main  body  laid  siege  to  Yorktown. 

16.  Several  batteries  were  soon  completed,  and  on  the 
9th  of  October  the  roar  of  artillery  began.  For  two  days 
an  incessant  fire  continued,  which  greatly  shattered  the  en- 
emy's works.  On  the  night  of  the  11th,  advancing  within 
sixty  rods,  the  besiegers  threw  up  a  second  line,  and  opened 
a  still  more  tremendous  fire.  This  line  was  exposed  to  a 
raking  discharge  from  two  redouts  of  the  enemy,  in  advance 
of  their  line  of  battery.  Washington  ordered  his  men  to 
take  these  by  storm.  They  were  soon  carried  at  the  point 
of  the  bayonet,  and  the  cannon  in  them  turned  against  the 
British  line. 

17.  ComwalHs  now  began  to  devise  some  mode  of  escape. 
He  prepared  boats  to  transport  his  army  across  the  river  to 
Gloucester,  intending  to  proceed  from  thence  to  New  York. 
But  a  violent  storm  defeated  his  plan.  The  besiegers  were 
now  fast  advancing  upon  him,  and  his  own  batteries  were 
tottering  under  their  cannonade.  In  this  hopeless  state  he 
was  obliged  to  submit ;  and  on  the  19th  of  October  he  sur- 
rendered his  whole  army,  amounting  to  7,000  men,  to  Wash- 

15.  How  many  men  had  Cornwallis  ?    Washington  ? 
■16.  When  did  the  Americans  and  French  commence  cannonading  the 
English? 
17.  When  did  Cornwallis  surrender  ? 


1181. 


TERMINATION    OF    THE    WAR. 


185 


SURRKNDKR      OF      CORNWALLIS. 


ington,  and  all  the  shipping  in  the  harbor,  with  the  seamen, 
to  Count  de  Grasse. 

18.  CornwalUs  and  his  army  received  the  same  honors  as 
were  granted  to  the  Americans  at  the  surrender  of  Charles- 
ton. On  that  occasion,  Lincoln  resigned  his  sword  to  Corn- 
wallis ;  now,  Cornwallis,  by  the  appointment  of  Washing- 
ton, resigned  his  to  Lincoln.  This  ceremony  was  performed 
on  the  camp  ground  of  the  victorious  army.  The  news  of 
this  event  spread  universal  joy  throughout  the  country. 
All  hearts  united  in  praise  and  thanksgiving  to  God  for  this 
signal  blessing,  which,  it  was  confidently  expected,  would 
terminate  the  struggle  for  their  independence.  Washington 
ordered  divine  service  throughout  the  army.  Congress  pro- 
ceeded in  solemn  procession  to  the  house  of  God,  to  ac- 
knowledge its  grateful  sense  of  this  special  favor.  Five 
days  after  the  surrender  of  CornwaUis,  Clinton  arrived  at 
the  mouth  of  the  Chesapeake  with  an  armament  of  7,000 
men  ;  but  hearing  of  the  fate  of  the  British  army,  he  re- 
turned to  New  York. 


18.  Who  received  the  sword  of  Cornwallis  ?     Why  ?     What  effect  had  this 
victory  on  the  nation  ?    To  whom  was  praise  rendered  for  this  blessing  ? 

16* 


186  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  l783. 

19.  The  capture  of  Comwallis  and  his  army  was  indeed 
the  final  blow  ;  for  it  limited  the  British  power  almost  en- 
tirely to  the  cities  of  New  York,  Charleston,  and  Savannah. 
The  voice  of  the  whole  British  nation  now  called  loudly  for 
the  immediate  termination  of  the  war.  The  king  was  ob- 
stinate, but  the  people  demanded  peace.  The  next  spring, 
just  eight  years  after  the  battle  of  Lexington,  peace  was 
proposed  by  Great  Britain,  and  hostilities  ceased.  John 
Adams,*  Benjamin  Franklin,  John  Jay,  and  Henry  Lau- 
rence, wei*e  appointed  agents  for  the  United  States  to  con- 
clude terms  of  peace.  On  the  30th  of  November,  1782, 
preliminary  articles  were  signed  at  Paris,  and  on  the  19th 
of  April,  1783,  a  formal  proclamation  of  the  cessation  of 
hostilities  was  made  through  the  army.  The  remnants  of 
the  British  troops  soon  after  began  to  leave  the  country. 
In  November  the  American  army  was  disbanded. 

20.  New  York  was  evacuated  by  the  British  troops  on 
the  25th  of  November,  1783.  On  the  same  day,  Washing- 
ton entered  that  city,  and  there,  soon  after,  took  an  affec- 
tionate leave  of  his  officers.  He  thence  proceeded  to  Anna- 
polis, where  congress  was  then  in  session,  and  on  the  25th 
of  December,  with  true  dignity  and  deep  feeling,  resigned 
his  commission  as  commander-in-chief.  Thus  did  Wash- 
ington, instead  of  assuming  the  power  of  a  military  despot, 
retire  to  the  peaceful  enjoyment  of  private  life. 

19.  How  did  the  English  nation  feel  about  the  continuance  of  the  war? 
Who  were  appointed  agents  for  the  United  States  to  conclude  terms  of  peace  ? 
When  and  where  were  preliminary  articWs  signed  ? 

20.  When  was  New  York  evacuated  1  What  is  the  meaning  of  evacuated  ? 
When  did  Washington  enter  New  York  ?  When  did  he  resign  his  commis- 
sion as  commander-in-chief  of  the  American  army? 

*  John  Adams  was  born  at  Baintree,  Massachusetts,  in  1735,  graduated  at  Har- 
vard college  1755,  and  commenced  the  practice  of  law  at  Quincy,  1759.  He  boldly 
opposed  the  encroachments  of  Great  Britain  upon  the  rights  of  the  colonies,  and 
took  an  active  part  in  the  events  that  led  on  to  the  Revolution.  He  was  elected  to 
the  first  continental  congress,  which  met  September  5, 1774.  To  a  friend  who  strove 
to  dissuade  him  from  taking  his  seat  in  that  body,  saying  that  the  power  of  Great 
Britain  was  irresistible,  and  would  involve  him  and  his  associates  in  destruction, 
he  replied,— "  The  die  is  now  cast.  I  have  passed  the  Rubicon.  Sink  or  swim- 
live  or  die — survive  or  perish  with  my  country — is  my  fixed,  unalterable  determi- 
nation." He  was  actively  engaged  during  our  revolutionary  struggle,  either  as  » 
member  of  congress,  or  commissioner  to  foreign  courts  ;  also  in  forming  and  estab- 
lishing our  present  system  of  government.  In  1789,  he  was  elected  vice-president, 
and  in  1797,  president,  of  the  United  States.    He  died  the  4th  of  July,  1826. 


1787.  '  TERMINATION    OP   THE    WAR.  187 

21.  The  enemy  had  now  left  the  coast  of  America.  The 
pubhc  mind  was  reUeved  from  the  excitement  of  defending 
the  country,  and  each  individual  began  to  reflect  upon  his 
own  private  calamities.  Many  had  been  ruined  by  the  de- 
vastations of  the  war ;  many  had  loaned  all  their  wealth, 
on  the  credit  of  government ;  but  now  public  and  private 
credit  had  sunk  together,  under  the  general  poverty  of  the 
country. 

22.  Congress  had  found,  during  the- war,  that  the  power 
conferred  by  the  federal  compact,  or  "  articles  of  confedera- 
tion," was  totally  inadequate  to  the  wants  of  a  national 
government.  It  gave  no  power  to  congress  to  levy  a  tax 
upon  the  people,  or  provide  for  a  public  revenue.  Although 
the  nations  of  Europe  had  acknowledged  the  independence 
and  national  character  of  the  United  States,  yet  congress 
had  no  power  to  enter  into  commercial  treaties  with  these 
nations.  In  this  state  of  affairs,  the  commercial  interests  of 
New  England  were  almost  entirely  destroyed.  Insurrec- 
tions broke  out,  and  the  people  by  thousands  armed  them- 
selves against  pubUc  authority. 

23.  It  was  now  evident  to  all  the  patriotic  statesmen  of 
that  period,  that  a  great  change  must  be  effected  in  the 
general  government ;  that  there  must  be  a  closer  union  of 
the  states,  and  more  power  conferred  upon  congress.  In 
Sept.,  1786,  commissioners  from  six  states  assembled  at  An- 
napolis, for  the  purpose  of  establishing  a  better  system  of 
commercial  regulations ;  and,  after  deliberating  some  time, 
proposed  to  congress  that  a  general  convention  of  delegates 
from  all  the  states  should  be  called,  for  the  purpose  of 
revising  the  articles  of  confederation. 

24.  Accordingly,  in  May,  1787,  delegates  from  all  the 
states  except  Rhode  Island,  assembled  at  Philadelphia,  and 

21.  What  was  the  situation  of  the  United  States  at  the  close  of  the  war? 

22.  Was  the  federal  compact  adapted  to  the  wants  of  the  nation  ?  In  what 
was  it  deficient  ? 

23.  When  did  commissioners  assemble  at  Annapolis  ?  From  how  many 
states?  From  which  states ?  J.ns.  New  York,  New  Jersey,  Pennsylvania, 
Delaware,  Mar}'land,  and  Virginia.     What  did  they  propose  to  congress  ? 

24.  When  and  where  did  delegates  meet  ?  Who  was  elected  president  of 
the  convention  ?     What  did  they  do  ?    What  did  congress  do  ?     How  many 


188  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1788. 

unanimously  elected  General  Washington  president  of  the 
convention.  This  august  body,  after  four  months'  delibera- 
tion, agreed  upon  a  new  constitution,  and,  on  the  17th  of 
September,  presented  it  to  congress,  which  body  soon  after 
sent  it  to  the  several  states  for  their  consideration,  and  pro- 
vision was  made  that  it  should  go  into  operation  as  soon  as 
nine  states  should  agree  to  accept  it.  The  supreme  power 
of  the  nation,  according  to  the  new  constitution,  was  to  be 
placed  in  the  hands  of  a  president,  senate,  and  house  of 
representatives,  to  be  chosen  by  the  people  of  the  several 
states.  Some  of  the  states  adopted  the  constitution  imme- 
diately, without  hesitation.  But  in  others  it  met  with  violent 
opposition.  It  was,  however,  adopted  by  eleven  states,*  and 
was  ratified  by  congress,  Sept.  13th,  1788.  The  4th  of 
March,  1789,  was  fixed  on  as  the  time  when  the  new  system 
of  government  should  go  into  operation.  Representatives 
and  senators  were  chosen  in  the  different  states  to  consti- 
tute a  congress,  and  electors  appointed  to  choose  a  president 
and  vice-president  under  the  new  constitution. 

states  accepted  the  new  constitution  T  What  were  those  called  who  accepted 
it?  Am.  Federalists.  Those  who  opposed  it  ?  Ans.  Anti-federalists.  "When 
was  it  ratified  by  congress  ?     How  many  states  were  there  at  that  time  ? 

*  The  following  table  shows  the  time  the  constitution  was  adopted  in  each  state  : 

Delaware,    ....  Dec.     7,  1787,  Without  amendments. 
Pennsylvania,.  ..--.. 

New  Jersey,     . 

Georgia, Jan. 

Connecticut,     ..." 

Massachusetts,      .    .  Feb.     7',     "     Amendments  recommended. 

Maryland,    ....  April  28,     *<      Without  amendments. 

South  Carolina,    .     .  May   23,      "     Amendments  recommended, 

New  Hampshire, 

Virginia,  .     .     . 

New  York,  .    . 

North  Carolina, 

Rhode  Island,  . 

It  will  be  seen  by  this  table,  that  eleven  states  adopted  the  constitution  before 
it  was  ratified  by  congress.  The  act  for  the  ratification  of  the  constitution  was  re- 
ported in  congress,  July  14th,  1788,  and  was  passed  by  that  body  on  the  13th  of  Sept. 
following.  Thus  the  grand  point  of  a  federal  union  was  achieved.  In  most  of  the 
states,  at  first,  the  constitution  met  with  strong  opposition.  Many  believed  that  the 
powers  it  conferred  upon  the  rulers,  were  too  extensive,  and  would  be  dangerous  to 
the  liberties  of  the  people.  Those  in  favor  of  the  constitution,  were  called  Federal- 
ists ;  and  those  opposed  to  it.  Anti-federalists.  Its  adoption  gave  stability  to  the 
government,  confidence  to  the  people,  and  has  been  the  source  of  unexampled  pros- 
perity to  the  nation. 


^^ 

12, 

18, 

(( 

Jan. 

1 

1788, 

Feb. 

u 

April  28', 

« 

May 

23, 

t( 

June  21, 

(( 

u 

27, 

" 

Jul7 

26, 

" 

Nov. 

21, 

17H9, 

May 

29, 

1790, 

HISTORY 


THE  UNITED  STATES. 


PERIOD   IV. 

Comprises  the  events  that  occurred  from  the  adoption  of  the  Consti- 
tution TO  the  present  time. 

1.  By  this  lime  the  United  States  had  taken  an  honor- 
able rank  among  civiHzed  nations.  The  old  world  had 
watched  her  progress  with  the  deepest  interest,  and  beheld, 

What  events  are  comprised  in  the  fourth  period  ? 

1.  How  did  the  old  world  regard  the  affairs  of  this  country?  What  was 
expected  of  Washington  ?  Beloved  as  Washington  was  by  the  whole  arm>; 
do  you  think  it  would  have  been  difficult  to  have  established  himself  as  a 
sovereign  over  the  nation  ? 


190  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1789. 

with  the  highest  admiration,  the  conduct  of  Washington. 
Many  expected  that  the  man  who  held  the  hearts  of  the 
American  people  would,  like  other  conquerors  before  him, 
establish  himself  as  a  sovereign  over  them.  But  Washing- 
ton, who  had  served  his  country,  not  from  ambition,  but 
from  the  promptings  of  the  purest  patriotism,  claimed  no 
other  rights  or  powet^  than  those  of  a  private  citizen. 

2.  In  the  spring  of  1789,  the  members  of  the  new  con- 
gress assembled  at  New  York,  and  when  the  votes  were 
counted,  it  was  found  that  George  Washington  had  been 
unanimously  elected  president  of  the  United  States.  The 
inauguration  took  place  on  the  30th  of  April,  in  the  presence 
of  a  vast  multitude,  who  were  delighted  to  see  the  highest 
office  of  the  nation  conferred  on  the  illustrious  hero  of  the 
Revolution.     John  Adams  was  chosen  vice-president. 

3.  Congress  now  imposed  duties  on  imported  goods,  and 
upon  the  tonnage  of  vessels,  for  the  purpose  of  estabhshing 
a  revenue  for  the  support  of  government  and  the  payment  of 
the  national  debts.  The  president,  with  the  concurrence 
and  assent  of  the  senate,  appointed  Thomas*'  Jefferson*  sec- 
retary  of  state  ;  Alexander  Hamilton,!    secretary   of   the 

2.  Who  was  elected  the  first  president?  Vice-president  ?  When  did  their 
inauguration  take  place  ? 

3.  What  did  congress  do  to  establish  a  revenue?  What  secretaries  were 
appointed  ?  How  were  they  appointed  ?  What  other  department  was  organ- 
ized ?  Of  how  many  judges  did  the  supreme  court  of  the  United  States  con- 
sist at  its  organization?  Ans.  Of  one  chief  justice  and  five  associate  judges. 
John  Jay,  of  New  York,  was  appointed  chief  justice  ;  John  Rutledge,  of 
South  Carolina,  William  Gushing,  of  Massachusetts,  R.  H.  Harrison,  of  Ma- 
ryland, James  Wilson,  of  Pennsylvania,  and  John  Blair,  of  Virginia,  associate 
judges. 

*  Thomas  Jefferson  was  born  at  Shadwell,  near  Monticello,  Virginia,  1743.  In 
1769,  he  was  a  member  of  the  legislature  of  Virginia,  and  so  continued  till  the  revo- 
lution. He  took  his  seat  in  congress,  June  21,  1775.  As  a  member  of  congress  he 
made  few  speeches.  He  remarks  :  "  I  served  with  General  Washington  in  the  leg- 
islatui-e  of  Virginia,  before  the  revolution  ;  and  during  it,  with  Dr.  Franklin  in  con- 
gress. I  never  heard  either  of  them  speak  ten  minutes  at  a  time  ;  nor  to  any  but 
the  main  point,  which  was  to  decide  the  question.  They  laid  their  shoulders  to  the 
GREAT  POINTS,  knowing  that  the  little  ones  would  follow  of  themselves."  In  1801, 
he  was  chosen  president.  In  this  high  office  he  continued  8  years  ;  retiring  in  1809 
to  Monticello.  There  he  passed  the  remainder  of  his  days,  devoting  the  last  years 
of  his  life  to  the  establishment  of  the  University  of  Virginia  at  Charlottesville,  about 
4  miles  from  INlonticelio.  He  died  July  4,  1826.  He  was  a  zealous  cultivator  of  liter- 
ature and  science,  and  his  name  is  one  of  the  brightest  in  the  revolutionary  galaxy. 
See  the  Life  of  Thomas  Jelferson. 

t  Alexander  Hamilton  was  born  in  the  island  of  St.  Croix,  in  1757.    He  came  to 


1789.        '        Washington's  administration.  191 

treasury  ;  and  General  Knox,*  secretary  of  war.  A  judici- 
ary department  was  also  organized.  John  Jay  was  ap- 
pointed chief  justice,  and  Edmund  Randolph  attorney-gen- 
eral. Several  amendments  to  the  constitution  were  proposed, 
and  afterward  adopted. 

4.  Washington,  soon  after  congress  adjourned,  visited  the 
New  England  states.  Never  was  a  king  received  with  such 
unfeigned  applause  and  sincere  affection.  Multitudes  trav- 
eled many  miles  to  enjoy  the  pleasure  of  seeing  the  man 
whom  all  acknowledged  to  be  the  father  of  his  countrJ^ 
The  officers  and  soldiers  of  the  "  patriot  army"  wept  tears 
of  joy  at  the  sight  of  their  beloved  general.  Washington 
felt  for  them  a  sort  of  parental  regard,  and  sought,  in  many 
ways,  to  reward  their  services  in  behalf  of  their  country. 

5.  At  the  opening  of  the  next  session  of  congress,  the 
president  strongly  recommended  that  some  effectual  mea- 
sures should  be  adopted  for  establishing  public  credit.  Mr, 
Hamilton,  in  his  able  report  on  the  state  of  the  treasury, 
proposed  a  plan  for  this  object.  He  estimated  the  public 
debt  of  the  United  ^X?iies>^  foreign  and  domestic^  at  fifty-four 
millions  of  dollars.  The  foreign  debt,  due  to  France  and 
Holland,  was  about  twelve  million  dollars.  Besides  this, 
debts  amounting  to  more  than  twenty  miUions  had  been 
contracted  by  the  several  states  in  support  of  the  war. 
Hamilton  proposed  that  these  debts  should  all  be  funded, 
or  assumed  by  the  general  government,  and  paid  out  of  the 
public  treasury. 


4.  When  did  Washington  visit  the  New  England  states? 

5.  What  did  the  president  recommend  at  the  opening  of  the  next  session 
of  congress  I     What  did  Mr.  Hamilton  propose  ? 


New  York  in  1773.  At  the  commencement  of  the  revolution,  he  joined  the  army, 
was  aid-de-camp  to  Washington,  and  continued  in  the  service  till  the  close  of  the 
war.  He  afterward  commenced  the  practice  of  law  in  New  York,  and  rose  to  the 
highest  eminence  in  the  profession.  He  was  killed  in  a  duel  witli  Colonel  Aaron 
Burr,  1S04.  This  occurrence  produced  a  wonderful  sensation  throughout  the  coun- 
try. His  transcendent  abilities  were  acknowledged  by  men  of  all  political  parties  ; 
and  he  was  regarded  as  an  able  statesman  and  financier. 

*  Henry  Knox  was  born  in  Boston.  176U.  He  was  promoted  to  the  rank  of  a  briga- 
dier-general. He  was  actively  enijaged  during  the  whole  war.  In  1785,  he  suc- 
ceeded General  Lincoln  as  secretary  of  war.  and  continued  in  the  office  till  1794. 
He  died  at  Thomiislown,  Maine,  in  1806.  He  was  distinguished  for  his  mditary 
talents,  and  possessed,  in  an  uncommon  degree,  the  esteem  and  confidence  of 
Washington. 


192  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1791. 

6.  Provision  for  the  payment  of  the  foreign  debt  of  the 
nation,  was  cordially  and  unanimously  made ;  but  respect- 
ing the  full  payment  of  the  domestic  debt,  and  the  as- 
sumption of  the  state  debt,  much  division  prevailed  in  con- 
gress. It  was  contended  that  men  had  taken  advantage 
of  the  low  state  of  public  credit,  and  bought  up,  for  a  i 
small  price,  certilicates  of  security  against  the  government,  | 
and  that  the  present  holders  were  not  justly  entitled  to 
receive  more  than  they  had  paid.  'J'o  this  it  was  an- 
swered, that  the  government  originall}''  promised  to  pay  the 
whole,  and  the  reason  why  these  seciu'it  ies  had  depreciated, 
was  owing  to  its  neglect  to  fulfill  this  promise  ;  and  now, 

to  preserve  the  public  faith,  the  whole  must  be  paid.  For 
the  general  government  to  assume  the  debts  contracted  by 
the  states,  it  was  said,  would  be  dangerous  to  the  sover- 
eignty of  the  states.  Hut  these  objections  were  ably  an- 
swered ;  and  after  some  debate,  the  plan,  with  some  modi- 
fications, was  adopted.  The  whole  debt  was  about  seven-  Ij 
ty-five  millions  of  dollars.  Upon  a  part  of .  this  three  per" 
cent,  interest  was  to  be  paid,  and  upon  the  remainder  six 
per  cent. 

7.  The  country  throughout  soon  felt  the  good  effect  of 
these  measures.  Monej''  became  plenty  ;  public  and  private 
credit  was  again  restored  ;  business  of  all  kinds  began  to 
flourish.  Agreeably  to  a  recommendation  of  Alexander 
Hamilton,  in  1791,  a  bill  was  introduced  into  congress  for 
establishing  a  national  bank,  called  "  the  Bank  of  the 
United  States,"  with  a  capital  of  ten  millions  of  dollars. 
This  was  strongly  opposed,  on  the  ground,  principally,  that 

6.  Why  was  it  rontondocl  that  the  present  holders  of  certificates  should  not 
reccivt;  tho  lull  iimouul  nuMitionod  in  them?  Do  you  think  they  ought  to 
have  received  the  wliole  aiuovmt  ! 

7.  In  what  y«'ar  was  the  lirst  liank  of  the  United  States  diartered?  What 
is  necessary  for  a  l)ill  to  l>ecoino  a  hiw  I  Ans.  h  must  pass  tlu^  liouse  of  rep- 
resentatives and  the  striate  Ity  a  inajt)rity  of  votes — n\ust  be  engrossed,  or 
copied  in  a  huge,  tair  hami — and  signed  by  the  presiding  officers.  It 
is  then  sent  to  tlie  presiileul,  and,  if  hi^  approve  the  bdl,  he  signs  his  name 
to  it,  and  it  then  l)econies  a  law.  If  he  disapprove  of  it,  he  sends  it  back  to 
the  house  in  which  it  iniginated,  without  signing  it,  witl\  his  reiusons  for  so 
doing.  This  is  called  jv/o»/}<r  the  bill.  For"  what  length  of  time  was  the  old 
United  Stales  Bank  ehartt>red  !  Ans.  Its  charter  extended  to  the  4th  of  May, 
ISll. 


1701.        .       wa8Hij7gton's  administration,  193 

congress  had  no  constitutional  right  to  charter  such  an 
institution ;  but,  after  a  lengthy  debate,  the  bill  was  passed 
by  a  majority  of  nineteen  votes.  During  the  same  session, 
an  act  was  passed,  after  strong  opposition,  laying  duties,  or 
a  tax,  upon  spirits  distilled  within  the  United  States,  and 
upon  stills.  This  was  very  unpopular  in  many  of  the 
states,  especially  at  the  south  and  west. 

8.  In  1791,  March  4th,  Vermont  was  admitted  into  the 
Union  as  an  independent  state.  In  1 724,  the  peoi)le  of  Massa- 
chusetts erected  a  fort  on  the  Connecticut  river,  as  a  protection 
against  the  Indians.  This  was  called  Fort  Duminer,  and 
was  the  first  settlement  within  the  limits  of  Vermont.  Ita 
territory  was  claimed  by  both  New  York  and  New  Hamp- 
shire. These  conflicting  claims  were,  for  several  years, 
matter  of  hot  contention.  But  in  1 707,  the  people  declared 
themselves  independent,  and  formed  a  distinct  govern- 
ment. During  the  war,  the  militia  of  this  state,  termed 
"  The  Green  Mountain  Boys,"  displayed  great  zeal  in  the 
common  cause  of  the  country.  Kentucky  was  admitted 
into  the  Union  in  1792.  The  first  settlement  in  that  terri- 
tory was  commenced  at  Boonsboro,  in  1775,  under  the 
guidance  of  Colonel  Daniel  Boon.  Although  the  inhabi- 
tants suflfered  greatly  from  the  hostility  of  the  Indians,  it 
increased  rapidly  in  population,  and,  in  less  than  twenty 
years  from  its  first  settlement,  was  made  an  independent 
state. 

9.  The  amount  of  revenue  in  1791,  was  4,800,000  dol- 
lars. The  amount  of  imports  was  twenty  millions,  and  of 
exports  about  nineteen  millions.  At  this  time  the  condition 
of  the  country  was  rapidly  improving.  The  stability  of 
government,  and  the  increase  of  population,  encouraged  the 
spirit  of  enterprise  in  every  department  of  business.  Ac- 
cording to  the  census,  which  was  completed  that  year,  the 
number  of  inhabitants  in  the  United  States  was  nearly 
four  millions. 

8.  What  stale  whs  adtnitted  into  tlio  union  in  1791  7  What  i.s  riMiuisite  for 
a  territory  to  hr  achmttrd  into  the  union  ns  an  indopnulrnl,  tiV.dr,  !  Ans.  It 
must  contain  tiO,()(K)  miiabitanta,  lonn  a  state  government,  and  adopt  the  con- 
stitution of  the  United  States.    When  was  Kentucky  admitted  into  the  union  1 

9.  What  did  the  revenue  amount  to  in  1791  ?     What  was  the  population  ' 

17 


194  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1793. 

10.  But  the  country  was  not  yet  entirely  free  from  the 
calamities  of  Indian  warfare.  The  tribes  northwest  of  the 
Ohio,  which  could  bring  into  the  field  five  thousand  war- 
riors, were  still  harrassing  the  frontier  settlements.  An 
army  of  fifteen  thousand  men,  under  General  Harmer,  was 
sent  against  them.  But,  in  two  engagements,  his  troops 
were  defeated,  and  compelled  to  retreat.  Not  long  after, 
General  St.  Clair,  with  two  thousand  men,  marched 
against  the  savages.  On  the  5th  of  November,  1791,  his 
camp  was  suddenly  surrounded,  about  the  break  of  day, 
and  a  destructive  fire  poured  upon  his  men.  His  troops 
were  soon  arrayed  for  defense  ;  but  the  enemy,  concealed 
behind  trees  and  rocks,  could  not  be  resisted  by  a  regular 
charge. 

11.  This  unequal  contest  continued  for  several  hours.  At 
length  St.  Clair,  fearing  that  his  men  would  be  entirely  cut 
off,  ordered  a  retreat.  The  enemy  pursued  for  some  time, 
and  then  returned  to  plunder  the  camp  of  the  whites.  Be- 
fore the  engagement,  St.  Clair's  forces  had  been  reduced  to 
about  fourteen  thousand  men.  Of  these,  more  than  nine 
hundred  were  killed,  or  wounded,  by  this  fatal  assault. 
Congress  was  now  alaimed  lest  a  general  war  should 
spread  along  the  whole  frontier.  A  bill  was  passed  for 
enlisting  a  regular  army  of  five  thousand  men,  and  the 
command  given  to  General  Wayne. 

12.  The  constitution  provides  that  the  president  shall 
hold  his  office  four  years.  His  term  having  expired,  Wash- 
ington was  unanimously  re-elected  to  that  office  in  1793, 
Mr.  Adams  was  re-elected  vice-president  in  opposition  to 
George  Clinton,  who  was  supported  as  a  rival  candidate. 
Party  spirit  now  began  to  prevail,  and  divide  the  people  in 
all  parts  of  the  country.  But  such  was  the  confidence  of 
the  nation  in  the  wisdom  and  integrity  of  Washington, 
that  all  parties  were  unanimous  in  supporting  him.     Mr. 

10.  Give  some  account  of  the  Indian  wars  at  this  time. 

11.  In  view  of  these  hostilities,  what  bill  was  passed  by  congress  ? 

12.  How  long  does  the  president  hold  his  office  ?  When  was  Washington 
•re-elected?  How  were  the  people  divided?  Bj'  what  names  were  these 
parties  known  ?  A-rw.  Repvblican  -AnA  federal.  Who  stood  at  the  head  of  the 
republican  party  ?    Who  at  the  head  of  the  federal  party? 


\ 


1Y93.         '      Washington's  administration.  195 

Hamilton  stood  at  the  head  of  the  Federal  party,  and  Mr. 
Jefferson  at  the  head  of  the  Repubhcan.  Each  party 
accused  the  other  of  designs  against  the  true  interests  of 
the  country.  The  federahsts  were  reproached  as  the  ene- 
mies of  hberty,  and  as  being  in  favor  of  a  monarchy  and  a 
titled  nobility ;  and  the  republicans  were  denounced  as  the 
friends  of  anarchy,  and  opposed  to  all  good  institutions 
whatever.  But,  in  both  parties,  there  were,  doubtless,  good 
men  and  zealous  patriots. 

13.  At  this  time,  France  was  undergoing  the  horrors  of  a 
bloody  revolution.  That  nation  had  become  dissatisfied 
with  their  regal  government,  and,  inspired  by  the  success  of 
the  American  revolution,  the  people  had  risen  in  a  mass  to 
throw  off  the  shackles  of  monarchy,  and  establish  over 
themselves  a  republican  form  of  government.  Blood  and 
carnage  spread  horror  and  gloom  in  all  directions.  The 
king,  the  queen,  and  many  thousands  of  noble  rank,  were 
put  to  death.  The  friends  of  royaltj^,  of  whatever  class, 
either  fell  by  a  common  slaughter,  or  escaped  from  the 
country. 

14.  These  excesses  in  France  produced  a  strong  re- 
action in  America.  Many,  who  had  regarded  with  favor 
the  struggles  of  that  people  for  freedom,  began  to  consider 
almost  any  condition  of  a  country  better  than  that  in 
which  all  the  sacred  institutions  of  government  and  reli- 
gion are  swept  away  with  the  best  blood  of  the  nation. 
Yet,  a  strong  sympathy  was  felt  in  favor  of  France,  espe- 
cially by  the  republican  party,  who  were  confident  that 
these  first  excesses  would  be  followed  by  moderation,  peace, 
and  good  government. 

15.  In  this  state  of  excitement,  the  citizen,  Genet,  ar- 
rived, May,  1793,  at  Charleston,  as  minister  of  the  French 
republic.  He  was  every  where  received  with  enthusiastic 
applause,  and  the  highest  marks  of  attachment.  Flattered 
by  his  reception,  he  immediately  assumed  the  power  of 
authorizing   privateers   to  cruise   against   the    enemies  of 

13,  14.  What  was  France  undergoing  at  this  time  ? 

15.  Who  arrived  in  1793?     What  power  did  he  assume?     What  did  the 
president  do  ? 


196  HISTORY    OP   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1*794. 

France.  The  president  at  once  forbid  the  course  he  was 
pursuing.  He  then  appealed  to  the  people,  but  soon  found 
himself  deserted,  and  his  measures  every  where  condemned. 
The  party  to  which  he  was  attached  in  France  did  not 
long  retain  its  power,  and  the  next  year  Genet  was  super- 
seded hy  the  arrival  of  a  new  minister,  Mr.  Fauchet. 

16.  General  Wayne,  who  had  been  sent  to  prosecute  the 
war  against  the  Indians  after  the  defeat  of  St.  Clair,  after 
many  vain  attempts  to  bring  them  to  terms  of  peace, 
marched  against  them  at  the  head  of  three  thousand  men. 
On  the  20th  of  August,  1794,  he  met  about  two  thousand 
warriors  on  the  banks  of  the  Maumee  river.  Wayne  led  up 
his  men  with  a  furious  charge,  drove  them  from  their 
coverts,  and  pursued  them  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet. 
The  savages  were  completely  routed,  their  houses  burned, 
and  their  towns  laid  waste.  This  victory  gave  peace  and 
security  to  the  territory  of  Ohio. 

17.  For  some  time  the  people  in  the  western  part  of 
Pennsylvania  had  made  great  complaints  against  the  law 
imposing  a  tax  upon  spirituous  liquors.  Combinations  had 
been  formed,  the  officers  of  government  were  resisted  and 
threatened,  and  several  thousands  conspired  for  the  purpose 
of  compelling  congress  to  repeal  the  offensive  laws.  This 
was  termed  "  the  Whiskey  Insurrection."  In  August,  1794, 
the  president  issued  his  proclamation,  commanding  the  in- 
surgents to  disperse.  This  not  having  the  desired  effect,  he 
ordered  out  an  army  of  fifteen  thousand  men,  to  enforce 
authority.  Against  this  force  the  insurgents  made  no  re- 
sistance, and  no  blood  was  shed.  The  leaders  were  tried 
and  convicted  of  treason,  but  were  afterward  pardoned. 

18.  About  this  time  the  tranquillity  of  the  nation  was 
threatened  by  the  conduct  of  Great  Britain.  Since  the 
peace  of  1783,  many  things  had  happened  to  excite  the 
hostility  of  the  Americans.  But  after  war  was  again  de- 
clared between  England  and  France,  the  British  govern- 
ment had  adopted  measures,  which  greatly  interfered  with 

'  16.  Describe  Wayne's  expedition  against  the  Indians. 

17.  Describe  the  rebellion  in  Pennsylvania. 

18.  What  happened  about  this  time?    Who  was  sent  to  the  British  court? 


1795»        '        Washington's  administration.  197 

the  prosperity  of  American  commerce.*  Difficulties  had  in- 
creased to  such  an  extent,  that  war  seemed  inevitable. 
Washington,  desirous  of  peace,  sent  Mr.  Jay  to  the  British 
court,  with  full  powers  to  adjust  all  difficulties  and  conclude 
a  commercial  treaty. 

19.  Mr.  Jay  having  concluded  a  treaty,  early  in  the 
spring  of  1795,  it  was  laid  before  the  senate.  It  provided 
that  the  western  posts,  held  by  the  British,  were  to  be  sur- 
rendered to  the  United  States  ;  settled  other  disputes  grow- 
ing out  of  the  original  treaty  of  peace ;  and  under  certain 
restrictions,  it  secured  to  the  people  of  the  United  States  a 
trade  with  the  British  possessions  in  the  East  and  West  In- 
dies ;  yet,  it  omitted  all  mention  of  the  disputed  points  of 
international  law, — the  rights  of  neutrals,  &c.  It  was 
violently  opposed  by  the  republican  party,  and  condemned 
in  the  most  sweeping  terms  ;  but  after  a  lengthy  debate, 
although  considered  by  Washington  as  'defective  on  some 
essential  points,  but  the  best  that  could  then  be  obtained,— 
it  was  ratified,  and  probably  saved  the  country  from  the 
miseries  and  distress  of  another  war.  The  western  Indians, 
disheartened  and  broken  by  the  defeat  they  received  from 
Gen.  Wayne,  concluded  a  treaty  at  Fort  Greenville,  August 
8d,  by  which  they  ceded  to  the  United  States  a  large  tract 
of  territory  north  of  the  Ohio. 


19.  How  did  the  people  regard  Jay's  treaty  ?  How  did  Washington  regard 
it  ?     Where  was  a  treaty  formed  with  the  Indians  ? 

•  In  1793,  Great  Britain,  for  the  purpose  of  distressing  France  and  shackling  the 
commerce  of  the  United  States,  passed  an  act  prohibiting  the  exportation  of  grain  to 
France,  and  authorizing  the  capture  of  neutral  vessels  engaged  in  carrying  it  thither, 
In  consequence  of  this,  a  great  number  of  American  vessels  were  captured,  and 
carried  to  England.  This  act  was  followed  by  another  equally  offensive.  Her  armed 
ships  were  authorized  to  capture  all  vessels  laden  with  goods  from  France  or  her 
colonies,  or  engaged  in  carrying  provisions  or  supplies  to  either.  The  Americans 
were  indignant  at  these  oppressive  measures,  and  contended  that  "  free  ships  made 
free  goods ;"  or  in  other  words,  that  all  property  on  board  neutral  vessels,  except 
contraband  goods,  had  a  right  to  pass  free  from  seizure  and  confiscation.  Another 
odious  measure  was  justly  complained  of  Great  Britain  claimed  theright  of  search- 
ing our  vessels  and  compelling  her  seamen,  wherever  found,  to  serve  on  board  her 
armed  ships.  This  right  of  impressment  was  not  confined  to  our  ports,  but  her 
ships  of  war  were  in  the  habit  of  stopping  vessels  at  sea,  and  taking  frojn  them  such 
as  they  claimed  were  English  sailors.  Now,  as  the  Americans  and  the  English  spoke 
the  same  language,  and  were  much  alike  in  many  other  respects,  it  would  be  diffi- 
cult to  distinguish  between  individuals  of  the  two  nations.  Hence  we  see,  that  the 
right  of  impressment  was  hable  to  great  abuse,  and  great  numbers  of  American  citi- 
zens were  impressed  and  compelled  to  serve  on  board  of  British  ships. 

17* 


198  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1795. 

20.  At  this  time  the  province  of  Louisiana  was  in  the 
possession  of  Spain.  Several  unsuccessful  attempts  had 
been  made  to  negotiate  with  that  nation  respecting  the  navi* 
gation  of  the  Mississippi.  The  people  of  Kentucky,  whose 
interests  were  at  stake,  now  became  clamorous  in  their 
demands  on  the  general  government,  and  even  made  prepa« 
rations  to  invade  the  Spanish  province.  But  after  Spain 
became  involved  in  war  with  France,  she  consented  to 
negotiate  with  the  United  States.  Thomas  Pinckney  was 
sent  to  Madrid,  and  in  October,  1795,  a  treaty  was  signed, 
which  secured  to  the  Americans  the  free  navigation  of  the 
great  western  river. 

21.  In  the  same  year  a  treaty  of  peace  was  also  con- 
cluded with  the  government  of  Algiers.  These  commercial 
treaties  with  the  powers  of  Europe,  soon  revived  the  com- 
merce of  the  nation,  and  opened  a  great  source  of  wealth  to 
our  enterprising  seamen.  Yet  fresh  troubles  now  began  to 
arise  from  the  conduct  of  France.  As  the  Americans  had 
declined  to  join  with  her  in  the  war  against  the  despots  of 
Europe,  she  became  jealous  of  their  friendship.  Her  minis- 
ters, however,  professed  the  sincerest  attachment,  and  one 
of  them,  Mr.  Adet,  brought  over  the  colors  of  France,  and 
presented  them  to  the  president.  They  were  received  with 
great  pomp  and  ceremony ;  and  by  a  unanimous  vote  of 
congress,  they  were  deposited  in  the  archives*  of  the 
nation. 

22.  Mr.  Monroe,  the  American  minister  to  France,  was 
received  by  the  French  republic  with  the  strongest  marks  of 
good  will.  It  was  decreed,  "  that  the  flags  of  the  two  nations 
should  be  entwined  together,  and  suspended  in  the  legislative 
hall,  as  a  mark  of  their  eternal  union  and  friendship."     In 

20.  To  whom  did  Louisiana  belong  at  that  time  ?  What  did  the  people  of 
Kentucky  propose  ?  When  was  a  treaty  formed  between  Spain  and  the 
United  States  ?     What  did  this  treaty  secure  ? 

21.  When  was  a  treaty  concluded  with  Algiers?  What  effect  had  these 
treaties  on  the  nation  ?  How  did  France  begin  to  regard  the  United  States  ? 
What  did  Mr.  Adet  do  T 


*  Archives,  the  apartment  in  which  records  are  kept,— also  the  records  and  papers 
Which  are  preserved  as  evidences  of  facts. 


1796.      '         Washington's  administration.  199 

this  manner  the  French  desired  to  induce  the  Americans  to 
espouse  their  cause  against  the  enemies  of  France.  Find- 
ing all  their  attempts  resisted,  they  adopted  certain  regula- 
tions respecting  commerce,  by  which  hundreds  of  vessels 
belonging  to  the  United  States  were  taken,  and  their  cargoes 
confiscated.  In  1796,  the  president  recalled  Mr.  Monroe, 
and  sent  Charles  C.  Pinckney,  to  remonstrate  with  the 
French  government,  and  to  seek  redress  for  these  injuries. 
In  this  year  Tennessee  was  admitted'  into  the  Union. 

23.  The  second  term  of  Washington's  administration 
was  nov  drawing  to  a  close.  In  the  fall  of  1796,  he  pub- 
lished a  farewell  address  to  the  citizens  of  the  United 
States,  in  which  he  expressed  his  determination  to  retire 
from  pubhc  hfe,  and  spend  his  remaining  days  in  peace  and 
quiet.  He  expressed  for  his  country  all  the  tenderness  of  a 
father's  solicitude  and  affection ;  pointing  out  the  dangers 
to  which  she  would  be  exposed,  and  warning  every  citizen 
with  solemn  earnestness  to  shun  the  evils  which  already 
threatened  the  dissolution  of  the  Union,  and  the  downfall  of 
the  nation. 

24.  This^  address  was  received  with  that  profound  respect 
and  veneration  for  its  author,  which  the  whole  nation  had 
been  cherishing  for  years.  The  most  gratifying  testimonials 
of  the  affection  and  gratitude  of  his  countrymen  followed 
the  hero  and  the  statesman,  as  he  retired  at  the  close  of 
his  administration  to  the  bosom  of  his  beloved  family  at 
Mount  Vernon.  The  two  great  parties  of  the  nation  now 
brought  forward  their  candidates  for  the  presidency.  The 
federalists  supported  John  Adams,  and  the  republicans 
Thomas  Jefferson.  The  lines  between  the  parties  were  now 
distinctly  drawn;  and  the  contest  was  spirited  and  nearly 
equal.     Mr.  Adams  was,  however,   chosen   president,  and 

22.  Did  Fiance  try  to  engage  the  United  States  in  a  war  with  her  enemies  ? 
How?  After  trying  in  vain,  what  was  next  done?  What  did  the  president 
do  in  1796? 

23.  When  did  Washington  publish  his  farewell  address  ? 

24.  Who  were  brought  forward  as  candidates  for  the  presidency  ?  By  what 
party  was  John  Adams  supported?  Thomas  Jefferson ?  Who  was  elected 
president?  Who  vice-president ?  When  did  they  enter  upon  the  duties  of 
their  office  ? 


200  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1797, 

Mr.  Jefferson  vice-president.     They  entered  upon  the  duties 
of  their  office  the  4th  of  March,  1797.* 


ADAMS'  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  Mr.  Adams,  at  the  commencement  of  his  administra- 
tion, found  the  nation  involved  in  difficulties  with  France. 
Mr.  Pinckney,  who  had  been  sent  by  Washing-ton  to  adjust 
existing  differences  between  the  two  republics,  had  been 
rejected  by  the.  Directory,  or  French  government,  and  or- 
dered to  quit  the  country  without  delay.  Depredations  were 
frequently  committed  on  the  commerce  of  the  United  States, 
in  direct  violation  of  the  treaties  existing  between  the  two 
nations.  In  this  state  of  affairs,  President  Adams  issued  his 
proclamation,  and  assembled  congress  on  the  15th  of  June. 
That  body  took  a  decided  stand  against  the  demands  of  the 
French,  and  authorized  the  president  to  adopt  measures  to 
raise  an  army,  enlarge  the  navy,  and  increase  the  revenue 
of  the  nation. 

2.  As  the  president  sincerely  desired  to  avoid  war,  he  ap- 
pointed John  Marshall  and  Eibridge  Gerry  joint  envoys  with 
Mr.  Pinckney,  and  instructed  them  to  secure,  if  possible,  an 
honorable  reconciliation  with  the  French.  But  the  new 
commissioners  were  also  rejected,  though  permitted  to  re- 
main at  Paris.     Agents  of  the  Directory  at  length  intimated 


1.  How  was  Mr.  Pinckney  received  by  the  French  government  ?  When 
was  congress  assembled  ?  What  was  the  cause  of  our  difficuhy  with  France  ? 
Ans.  Our  refusal  to  assist  her  in  her  wars  against  England  and  other  nations 
of  Europe.  "  We  have  assisted  you,"  said  she,  "in  your  war  against  Eng- 
land, and  now  we  expect  you  to  assist  us  in  our  wars." 

2.  Who  were  appointed  envoys  ?     How  were  they  received  ? 

*  By  examining  the  constitution  of  the  United  States,  you  will  see  that  the  presi- 
dent is  chosen  by  electors  appointed  by  ttie  several  states.  Each  state  appoints  as 
many  electors  ae  it  has  members  in  congress.  If  it  has  six  representatives  and 
two  senators  in  congress  it  chooses  eight  electors.  As  the  constitution  origi- 
nally stood,  each  elector  voted  for  two  candidates,  without  specifying  which  he  in- 
tended for  president,  or  which  for  vice-president.  The  candidate  who  received  the 
highest  number  of  votes,  provided  it  was  a  majority  of  the  whole,  was  elected  pre- 
sident ;  and  he  who  received  the  next  highest  number  was  elected  vice-president. 
Ill  1804,  the  constitution  was  amended,  requiring  the  electors  to  name  in  their  bal- 
lots the  persons  voted  for  as  president  and  vice-president. 


1800.  ADAMS     ADMINISTRATION.  201 

that  a  "  liberal  grant  of  money"  might  lead  to  terms  of 
accommodation.  '•  Millions  for  defense,"  the  Americans 
replied,  "but  not  one  cent  for  tribute." 

3.  Pinckney  and  Marshall  were  ordered  to  leave  the 
country,  but  Mr.  Gerry,  who  was  thought  to  be  more  favor- 
able to  the  French,  was  afterward  solicited  to  negotiate. 
This  he  declined.  In  1798,  when  these  facts  were  made 
known  in  America,  ail  parties  united  in  calling  loudly  upon 
the  government  to  assert  the  rights  of  the  nation.  Wash- 
ington was  unanimously  appointed  commander-in-chief  of  the 
American  forces.  The  navy  was  authorized  to  cruise 
against  the  armed  vessels  of  France. 

4.  The  army  was  not  called  into  action.  But  two  naval 
battles  were  fought  in  the  West  Indies.  The  French 
frigate  L'Insurgent  of  40  guns,  was  captured  by  the  Con- 
stellation of  38  guns,  under  the  command  of  Commodore 
Truxton.  The  same  commander  also  attacked  another 
ship  of  50  guns,  and  compelled  her  to  strike  her  colors,  but  in 
the  night  she  made  her  escape.  The  French,  perceiving 
the  determined  spirit  of  the  Americans,  and  not  wishing  to 
be  involved  in  war  with  them,  received,  in  1799,  commis- 
sioners appointed  by  the  president.  When  they  arrived  in 
France,  they  found  the  government  of  the  nation  in  the 
hands  of  Napoleon  Bonaparte,  with  whom  a  treaty  of  peace 
was  concluded,  September  30th,  1800. 

5.  In  the  mean  time,  the  people  of  America  were  filled 
with  grief  at  the  sudden  death  of  Washington.  He  died  on 
the  1 4th  of  December,  1 799,  after  an  illness  of  only  one  day. 
Never  was  a  man  more  deeply  lamented.  In  the  house  of 
representatives,  it  was  resolved,  "  That  the  speaker's  chair 
should  be  shrouded  in  black,  and  the  members  wear  black 
during  the  session ;  and  that  a  joint  committee  should  be 
appointed  to  devise  the  most  suitable  manner  of  paying 
honor  to  the  memory  of  the  max  first  in  war,  first  in  peace, 
and  first  in  the  hearts  of  his  countrymen." 

3.  How  were  they  treated  ?     Who  was  appointed  commander-in-chief  of  the 
American  forces  ?     What  was  our  navy  authorized  to  do? 

4.  What  naval  battles  were  fought  ?   When  was  a  treaty  of  peace  concluded  ? 

5.  When  did  Washington  die?  What  token  of  respect  was  paid  to  his 
memory  in  congress  ? 


202  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES.  1800. 

6.  During  the  summer  of  1800.  the  seat  of  government 
of  the  United  States  was  removed  from  Philadelphia  to 
the  District  of  Columbia,  Washington.  Public  buildings 
had  been  erected,  and  here  congress  assembled  for  the  first 
time,  in  November,  1800. 

7.  The  time  had  again  arrived  for  electing  a  president. 
The  republicans  supported  Thomas  Jefferson  and  Aaron 
Burr ;  the  federalists,  John  Adams  and  Charles  C.  Pinck- 
nej.  The  parties  were  nearly  equal,  and  both  engaged  in 
the  contest  with  uncommon  ardor.  Mr.  Adams'  course  of 
policy  had  been  much  censured  by  the  republican  party. 
The  alien  and  sedition  acts*  as  well  as  those  for  raising  a 
standing  army,  and  increasing  our  navy,  together  with  those 
imposing  a  direct  tax  and  internal  duties,  had  rendered  him 
unpopular,  and  greatly  increased  the  strength  of  his  politi- 
cal opponents.  On  canvassing  the  votes  for  president,  it 
was  found  that  Mr.  Jefferson  and  Mr.  Burr  had  each  seven- 
ty-three votes,  Mr.  Adams  sixty-five,  and  Mr.  Pinckney 
sixty-four. 

8.  As  the  two  republican  candidates  had  each  an  equal 
number  of  votes,  according  to  the  constitution  it  became 
the  duty  of  the  house  of  representatives  to  decide  which 
of  these  two  should  be  elevated  to  the  presidency.  The 
house,  however,  was  so  equally  divided  that  the  vote  was 
taken  thirty-five  times  before  a  majority  could  be  obtained 
on  either  side.     This,  however,  was  caused  by  the  manage- 


G.  When  was  the  seat  of  government  removed  from  Philadelphia  to  Wash- 
ington ?  Where  is  Washington  ?  In  what  direction  from  us  is  it  ?  How  far 
from  us  is  it  ? 

7,  Who  were  the  candidates  for  the  presidency  ?     Wh&t  was  the  result  ? 

8,  What  does  the  constitution  provide,  in  case  there  is  no  choice  by  the 


*  The  alien  and  sedition  acts  were  passed  in  1798,  when  our  difficulties  with 
France  were  at  their  height.  By  the  alieji  act,  the  president  was  autliorized  to 
compel  aliens  or  foreigners,  whom  he  should  judge  dangerous  to  the  peace  and 
safety  of  the  United  States,  to  leave  the  country,  on  penalty  of  imprisonment.  The 
sedition  act  was  intended  to  punish  the  abuse  of  speech  and  of  the  press.  It 
imposed  a  heavy  fine,  and  imprisonment  tor  years,  upon  such  as  should  "  combine 
or  conspire  together  to  oppose  any  measure  of  the  government" — upon  such  as 
should  "  write,  print,  utter,  publish,  &c.,  any  thing  false,  scandalous  or  malicious, 
against  the  government  of  the  United  States,  or  either  house  of  the  congress  of  the 
United  States,  or  the  president,  &c."  These  acts  were  considered  by  the  body  of 
Ih'e  people  as  dangerous  to,  if  not  subversive  pf,  the  constitutional  liberty  of  the 
United  States. 


J  801.       ,  Jefferson's  administration.  203 

ment  of  the  federalists.  Although  unable  to  elect  their 
own  candidate,  they  still  hoped  to  defeat  the  favorite  object 
of  the  republicans,  by  preventing  the  election  of  Mr.  Jeffer- 
son. Accordingly,  they  voted  for  Mr.  Burr,  and  day  after 
day  the  balloting  continued,  and  with  the  same  result.  But 
at  the  thirty-sixth  trial,  the  federalists  of  one  or  two  states 
gave  way,  and  Mr.  Jefferson  was  elected  president,  and  Mr. 
Burr,  of  course,  became  vice-president. 


JEFFERSON'S   ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  On  the  fourth  of  March,  1801,  Mr.  Jefferson  took  the 
oath  prescribed  by  the  constitution,  and  entered  upon  the 
duties  of  his  office,  as  president  of  the  United  States.  The 
new  administration  soon  began  to  order  affairs  according  to 
its  favorite  doctrines.  Economy  became  the  order  of  the 
day.  At  the  next  session  of  congress,  the  judiciary*  was 
restored  to  its  former  footing,  the  internal  taxes  were  abol- 
ished, and  the  army  and  navy  reduced.  A  bill  was  passed 
during  the  same  session,  extending  the  laws  of  natural- 
ization. 

2.  According   to  the   census  which  was   completed  in 


electors  or  people  ?  Ans.  The  president  is  then  to  be  chosen  by  the  house  of 
representatives,  voting  by  states,  each  state  being  entitled  to  one  vote.  See 
amendments  to  the  constitution  of  the  United  States,  article  12.  How  many 
times  was  the  vote  taken  in  the  house  before  there  was  a  majority  ?  What 
was  the  cause  of  this  ?  For  whom  did  the  federalists  vote  ?  In  consequence 
of  this,  Mr.  Burr,  from  that  time,  lost  the  confidence  of  the  democratic,  or  re- 
publican party.     Who  was  finally  elected  ? 

1.  When  did  Mr.  JeflFerson  enter  upon  the  duties  of  his  office?  Wh#t 
oath  is  the  president  required  to  take  before  he  enters  on  the  execution  of  his 
office  ?  See  the  constitution,  article  2.  What  was  done  at  the  session  of  con- 
gress in  1801 ? 

2.  What  was  the  population  of  the  United  States  in  1801  ?  Exports  ? 
Revenue  ?     When  was  Ohio  admitted  into  the  Union  ? 

*  Toward  the  close  of  Mr.  Adams'  administration  an  act  was  passed  reorgan- 
izinff  the  judiciary,  or  United  States  courts,  and  creating  sixteen  new  judges.  In  pur- 
suance of  this  law,  Mr.  Adams,  immediately  preceding  his  retirement  from  office, 
appointed  twelve  new  judges.  These  were  called  his  "  midnight  judiciary,"  from 
the  alleged  fact  that  they  were  appointed  at  twelve  o'clock  on  the  last  night  of  his 
presidential  authority.  The  judiciary  department,  or  supreme  court  of  the  United 
States,  originally  consisted  of  one  chief  justice  and  five  associate  justices.  There 
are  now  eight  associate  justices. 


204  HISTORY    OF   THE   UNITED   STATES.  1803. 

1801,  the  population  of  the  country  amounted  to  5,305,925. 
In  ten  years  the  amount  of  exports  had  increased  from 
nineteen  to  ninety-four  millions,  and  the  revenue  from  four 
to  twelve  millions  of  dollars.  In  1802,  the  state  of  Ohio 
was  admitted  into  the  Union.  The  first  settlement  within 
the  hmits  of  the  state,  was  made  at  Marietta,  in  1788.  At 
that  time  Ohio  formed  a  part  of  the  northwest  territory.  Its 
progress  was  slow,  until  after  the  peace  with  the  Indians, 
in  1795.  Since  that  period,  its  population  has  increased 
with  unexampled  rapidity. 

3.  In  1803,  Louisiana  was  purchased  by  the  American 
government.  By  this  purchase  the  territory  of  the  United 
States  was  more  than  doubled,  as  it  included  all  that  part 
of  the  country  west  of  the  Mississippi,  extending  to  Mex- 
ico and  the  Pacific  Ocean.  Louisiana  was  first  settled  by 
the  French,  at  Ibberville,  in  1699.  In  1762,  it  was  ceded 
to  Spain,  and  remained  in  her  possession  until  1800,  when 
it  was  granted  back  to  France.  Mr.  Jefferson  felt  that  the 
free  navigation  of  the  Mississippi  was  essential  to  the 
growth  and  prosperity  of  the  western  states,  and  perceived 
the  danger  and  embarrassments  that  must  result  to  them  if 
the  French  were  permitted  to  take  possession  of  this  province. 

4.  Negotiations  with  France  were,  therefore,  immediately 
commenced  by  Mr.  Jefferson,  for  the  purchase  of  the  whole 
country  of  Louisiana.  Bonaparte,  involved  in  war  with  all 
Europe,  and  conscious  of  the  difficulty  of  defending  so  dis- 
tant a  possession  as  Louisiana  against  the  naval  power  of 
England,  on  the  30th  of  April,  1803,  ceded  it  to  the  United 
States  for  fifteen  million  dollars.  Of  this  sum,  two  and 
a^half  millions  were  to  be  retained,  to  satisfy  the  claims  of 
American  merchants  for  spoliations  committed  by  the  gov- 
ernment of  France.  On  the  20th  of  December  the  terri- 
tory was  duly  transferred  to  the  United  States,  This  act 
of  Mr.  Jefferson,  though  severely  censured  by  the  whole 

3,4.  When  was  Louisiana  purchased?  Of  whom?  For  how  ranch? 
How  much  did  Louisiana  include  at  the  time  of  its  purchase  ?  It  embraced, 
also,  the  small  part  of  the  state  of  Louisiana  east  of  the  Mississippi.  By 
whom  was  this  act  censured  ?  Do  you  think  it  was  a  wise  act  of  Mr.  Jeffer- 
son to  purchase  Louisiana  ?  When,  where,  and  by  whom,  was  the  first  settle- 
ment made  in  the  state  of  Louisiana  ? 


1803. 


JEFFERSON  S    ADMINISTRATION. 


205 


federal  party,  was  of  the  highest  importance  to  the  country. 
It  added  immensely  to  the  security,  wealth,  and  prosperity 
of  the  nation. 

5.  For  a  long  time  our  commerce  had  been  much  an- 
noyed by  the  piratical  nations  of  the  Barbary  states,  especi- 
ally by  the  Tripolitans.  Many  merchant  vessels  had  been 
taken,  and  their  crews  treated  as  slaves.  In  1803,  Com- 
modore Preble  was  sent  wath  a  fleet  of  seven  ships  into  the 
Mediterranean,  for  the  purpose  of  protecting  our  commerce, 
and  bringing  those  corsairs  to  submission.  In  October  of 
the  same  year,  as  Captain  Bainbrid^e,  in  the  frigate  Phila- 
delphia, was  chasing  a  small  vessel  in  the  harbor  of  Tri- 
poli, the  frigate  ran  aground,  and  he  and  his  crew  were 
obliffed  to  surrender. 


BURNING      OF     THE      FRIGATE      PHILADELPHIA 


6.  According  to  the  custom  of  the  Tripolitans,  the 
officers  were  treated  as  prisoners  of  war,  but  the  men  were 
reduced  to  slavery.  Soon  after  the  ship  was  surrendered, 
the  captors  got  her  afloat,  and  anchored  her  in  the  harbor 

5,6.  What  wa.s  done  in  1803?  Which  are  the  Barbary  states?  Ans. 
Morocco,  Alj^iers,  Tunis,  Tripoli,  and  Barca.  What  was  the  cause  of  our 
difficulty  with  these  states,  especially  Tripoli  ?  Can  you  show  me  Tripdii  on 
the  map  ?    What  happened  in  October  ?    What  was  the  result  ? 

18 


206  HISTORY    OP   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1804. 

of  Tripoli.  In  this  situation,  Stephen  Decatur,  a  brave 
young  officer,  proposed  to  Commodore  Preble,  to  retake  or 
destroy  her.  The  plan  was  approved  ;  and  in  February, 
1804,  he  sailed  from  Syracuse,  in  a  small  schooner,  with  a 
crew  of  seventy-six  men.  He  entered  the  harbor  of  Tripoli 
undiscovered,  ran  his  vessel  alongside  the  frigate,  boarded 
her,  and  having  cleared  the  decks  at  the  point  of  the  sword, 
set  her  on  fire,  and  escaped  without  the  loss  of  a  man.  In 
reward  of  this  gallant  deed,  Decatur  was  promoted  by  the 
president  to  the  rank  of  post-captain.  During  the  summer, 
Tripoli  was  several  times  bombarded  by  the  American 
squadron. 

7.  The  reigning  bashaw  of  Tripoli,  Sidi  Joussouf,  had 
raised  himself  to  that  dignity  by  the  murder  of  his  father, 
and  the  banishment  of  Hamet,  his  elder  brother.  William 
Eaton,*  our  consul  at  Tunis,  a  brave  and  enterprising  man, 
believed  that  the  most  successful  method  of  terminating 
our  difficulties  with  TripoH,  and  gaining  an  advantageous 
treaty  of  peace,  would  be,  to  place  Hamet  on  the  throne. 

7.  What  bold  and  singular  expedition  was  undertaken  by  General  William 
Eaton  ?  Of  how  many  different  nations  was  his  army  composed  ?  An^. 
Twelve.  There  were  eleven  Americans  and  seventy  or  eighty  Greeks  and 
Frenchmen.  How  long  were  they  in  crossing  the  desert  of  Lybia  ?  When 
did  they  arrive  at  Derne  ?  When  Eaton  demanded  a  surrender  of  the  place, 
what  reply  was  made  by  the  governor  ?  Atis.  "  My  head  or  yours."  Can  you 
show  me  Derne  on  the  map  ?  In  what  direction  from  Alexandria  is  it  ?  What 
direction  from  us  ? 


*  General  William  Eaton  was  born  in  Woodstock,  Connecticut,  Feb.  23d,  1764. 
He  graduated  at  Dartmouth  colle/^e,  in  1790,  married  the  widow  of  Gen.  Timothy 
Danieison,  at  Union,  Conn.,  in  1792,  and  was  promoted  to  the  rank  of  captain  in 
the  army,  under  Gen.  Wayne,  in  1793.  In  1798,  he  was  appointed  consul  at  Tunis. 
He  rendered  his  country  important  services  in  that  station,  and  as  navy  agent  for 
the  Barbary  powers.  In  his  diplomatic  intercourse  with  those  piratical  nations,  he 
adopted  a  tone  of  boldness  and  independence  which  astonished  them.  Being  com- 
pelled by  the  treaty  of  Mr.  Lear  to  relinquish  the  advantages  he  had  gained  for 
placing  Hamet  on  the  throne  of  Tripoli,  he  returned  home,  where,  although  public 
opinion  was  strongly  in  his  favor,  he  met  with  mortification  and  disappointment. 
He  died  at  Brimfield,  June  1,  1811.  As  a  writer,  Eaton  possessed  extraordinary 
command  of  language  and  energy  of  expression,  as  will  be  seen  from  the  following 
extract  of  a  letter  which  he  wrote,  while  at  Tunis,  to  Mr.  O'Brien,  the  American 
consul  at  Algiers : 

"  Sir.— The  Dey  will  declare  war  against  Spain.  Speed  to  the  measure  ;  it  will 
give  us  relief;  Mussulmen,  Catholics,  assassins,  thieves,  beggars,  pimps!  In 
Heaven's  name  let  them  devour  each  other.  I  wish  I  could  thunder  with  a  voice 
like  Jove.  I  would  project  electric  bolts  omnipotent  among  them,  thicker  than  the 
stars  of  heaven,  more  irregular  than  the  dreams  of  guilt,  pointed  with  blue  wrath, 
terrible  as  hell ;  and  then,  in  one  promiscuous  labyrinth  of  contagious  vengeance, 
ingulf  them."' 


1804.        ,         Jefferson's  administration.  207 

For  this  purpose,  in  1805,  he  repaired  to  Egypt,  where  the 
exiled  prince  then  was,  and  explained  the  plan  for  his  resto- 
ration. Hamet  hstened  with  pleasure  to  the  proposals  of 
Eaton,  and  an  army  was  soon  raised,  and  placed  under  the 
command  of  the  latter.  On  the  6th  of  March  they  left 
Alexandria,  and  set  out  for  Tripoli.  They  crossed  the 
desert  of  Lybia,  a  thousand  miles  in  extent.  They  suffered 
incredible  hardships  from  hunger,  thirst,  heat,  and  fatigue. 
After  travehng  fifty  days,  they  anived,  on  the  25th  of  April, 
at  Derne,  a  city  of  Barca,  but  subject  to  Tripoli.  The 
next  morning  the  place  was  taken  by  storm. 

8.  Not  long  after  this,  they  were  attacked  in  Derne,  by  a 
large  number  of  Tripolitans,  who  were  repulsed  with  con- 
siderable loss.  In  June,  another  battle  was  fought,  in  which 
Eaton  was  decidedly  victorious.  He  was  soon,  however, 
arrested  in  his  brilliant  career,  by  a  treaty  of  peace  which 
the  reigning  tyrant  had  concluded  with  the  American 
agent,  Mr.  Lear.  By  this  treaty,  the  United  States  were  to 
give  sixty  thousand  dollars  for  the  American  prisoners,  and 
relinquish  the  cause  of  Hamet.  The  brilliant  exploits  of 
the  Americans  during  the  war,  by  sea  and  by  land,  added 
great  luster  to  the  military  character  of  the  nation. 

9.  In  1804,  Colonel  Burr  was  supported  as  a  candidate 
for  the  office  of  governor  of  New  York.  The  republican 
party  had  deserted  him,  and  he  was  sustained  chiefly  by 
the  federalists.  But  Mr.  Hamilton,  having  no  confidence 
in  the  moral  character  of  Burr,  opposed  his  election.  Being 
defeated,  and  enraged  at  the  opposition  of  Hamilton,  Burr 
sent  him  a  challenge.  It  was  accepted  ;  a  duel  was 
fought,  July  11th,  and  Hamihon  fell.  This  event  produced 
a  deep  sensation.  His  death  was  lamented  by  the  whole 
community  as  a  loss  to  his  country ;  for  he  was  looked 
upon  by  all,  as  a  man  of  great  talents,  of  powerful  elo- 
quence, and  as  a  scholar  and  gentleman. 


8.  What  was  the  result  of  Eaton's  expedition  ?  How  did  Eaton  feel  to  be 
thus  stopped  when  he  had  so  fair  a  prospect  of  placing  Hamet  on  the  throne, 
and  having  the  American  prisoners  released  without  ransom  ?  Ans,  No  one 
can  describe  his  grief  and  indignation. 

9.  What  happened  in  1804  ?  The  duel  was  fought  at  Hoboken,  in  New 
Jersey,  opposite  New  York. 


208  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1806. 

10.  In  1807,  Burr  was  arrested,  and  brought  to  trial,  on  a 
charge  of  high  treason.  From  his  movements,  it  was  sup- 
posed that  he  designed  to  dissever  the  Union,  and  estabhsh 
a  separate  government  over  the  western  states.  He  had 
provided  a  great  many  boats,  and  engaged  men  to  descend 
the  Mississippi  river.  From  his  trial,  his  real  design  could 
not  be  ascertained ;  but  it  appeared  more  probable  that  he 
intended  to  invade  the  provinces  of  Mexico.  Burr  was 
finally  acquitted.  But  the  people  having  no  confidence  in 
his  integrity,  left  him  to  sink  into  a  state  of  wretchedness 
and  obscurity. 

11.  At  this  time  Bonaparte*  was  extending  the  dominion 
of  France  over  all  the  nations  of  Europe.  While  he  was 
multiplying  his  victories  on  land,  England  had  taken  full 
command  of  the  ocean.  As  the  United  States  were  a 
neutral  power,  their  ships  found  a  very  profitable  trade  in 
carrying  the  products  and  manufactures  of  England  and 
France  into  all  the  ports  of  Europe.  The  British  nation 
soon  became  jealous  of  the  prosperity  of  American  com- 
merce. On  the  16th  of  May,  1806,-  the  government  of 
Great  Britain  issued  an  "  order  in  council"  declaring  the 
whole  coast,  from  the  mouth  of  the  River  Elbe,  in  Ger- 
many, to  the  town  of  Brest,  in  France,  to  be  in  a  state  of 
blockade.  By  this  order,  American  vessels  trading  to  any 
ports  on   this   coast,  were  liable   to  seizure   and   condem- 


10.  What  happened  in  1807  ?    What  was  the  result  of  this  trial  ? 

11.  Who  was  Napoleon  Bonaparte?  What  was  he  doing  at  this  time? 
What  do  you  understand  by  a  neutral  power?  In  what  trade  were  our  ves- 
sels engaged?     What  did  the  British  do  in  1806?     Napoleon? 

*  Napoleon  Bonaparte,  one  of  the  most  remarkable  men  of  any  age  or  nation. 
He  was  born  at  Ajaccio,  iu  the  island  of  Corsica,  1769.  He  commenced  his  mili- 
tary career  as  a  lieutenant  of  artillery,  in  1786,  and  soon  after  so  distinguished  him- 
self at  the  siege  of  Toulon,  and  during  the  civil  contentions  at  Paris,  that  he  was 
Eromoted  to  the  command  of  the  army  of  Italy,  in  1796.  Here  he  fought  a  series  of 
attles,  and  gained  a  succession  of  victories  over  the  oldest  and  ablest  generals  of 
Europe,  which  astonished  the  world,  and  compelled  his  enemies  to  peace.  In  1799, 
he  was  appointed  First  Consul  of  the  republic.  In  1804,  he  was  crowned  emperor 
of  France.  His  usual  success  attended  him,  and  nearly  all  Europe  was  under  his 
control  till  1812,  when  he  invaded  Russia.  The  destruction  of  Moscow  compelled 
him  to  retreat  with  his  army,  and  he  was  forced  to  abdicate  the  throne  for  the 
sovereignty  of  Elba,  1814.  He  returned  to  France,  1815,  and  was  defeated  in  the 
battle  of  VV'aterloo,  which  terminated  his  political  career.  He  threw  himself  upon 
the  generosity  of  the  English  nation,  and  was  exiled  to  St.  Helena,  where  he  was 
kept  a  prisoner  till  his  death,  in  1821.    See  the  Life  of  Napoleon  Bonaparte. 


1807.  Jefferson's  administration".  209 

nation.*  Under  this  act,  great  numbers  of  American  ves- 
sels were  taken  and  condemned.  In  November  of  the  same 
year,  Napoleon,  to  retaliate  upon  the  English,  issued  his 
famous  "  Berlin  Decree^''']  declaring  the  British  islands  to  be 
in  a  state  of  blockade.  By  this  act  several  of  our  vessels  were 
taken  by  the  French,  and  our  commerce  greatly  interrupted. 

12.  England,  for  several  years,  had  found  it  impossible  to 
enlist  sailors  enough  to  man  her  extensive  navy.  To  sur- 
mount this  difficulty,  she  had  resorted  to  the  arbitrary  mea- 
sure of  impressing  her  seamen,  ^nd  forcing  them  into  her 
naval  service.  Her  ships  of  war  were  authorized  to  board 
and  search  American  vessels,  and  take  all  the  men  who 
appeared  to  be  British  subjects.  In  this  way,  about  seven 
thousand  American  seamen  were  seized,  and  compelled  to 
serve  as  British  sailors.  Against  these  outrageous  proceed- 
ings, our  government  had  frequently  remonstrated. 

13.  In  1807,  as  the  frigate  Chesapeake  was  going  out  to 
sea,  she  was  attacked  by  the  Leopard,  a  British  ship  of 
superior  force,  on  suspicion  of  having  British  sailors  on 
board.  Three  of  the  Americans  were  killed,  and  eighteen 
wounded.  The  Chesapeake,  not  at  all  prepared  for  action, 
immediately  struck  her  colors.  An  officer  then  came  on 
board,  summoned  the  crew  together,  marked  four  men  as 
British  deserters,  and  took  them  on  board  the  Leopard.  It 
was  afterward  found  that  three  of  them  were  Americans, 
who  had  been  forced  into  the  British  service,  but  had  after- 
ward escaped. J 

14.  This  insolent  assault  upon  a  national  ship,  roused  the 

12.  To  what  arbitrary  measure  did  England  resort  to  furnish  her  navy  with 
sailors  ?     What  were  her  ships  authorized  to  do  ? 

13.  Mention  the  attack  upon  the  Chesapeake. 

14.  What  effect  had  this  upon  the  American  people?      What  did  the  presi- 

•  By  tlie  laws  of  war,  neuteal  vessels  are  excluded  from  blockaded  ports. 

t  Under  this,  and  subsequent  decrees,  the  French  and  their  allies  seized  a  great 
number  of  our  vessels,  and  thus  enriched  themselves  by  the  plunder  of  American 
merchants.  Several  years  afterward,  our  government  demanded  payment  for  the 
vessels  and  goods  they  had  seized.  Demands,  or  claims,  were  made  on  France, 
Spain,  Denmark,  and  Naples.  These  have  all  been  paid  to  the  satisfaction  of  our 
governmenf. 

X  The  affair  of  the  Chesapeake  was  settled  in  1811.  The  government  of  Great 
Britain  disapproved  of  the  act,  restored  the  men,  and  made  a  compensation  in  money 
to  the  wounded,  and  the  families  of  the  slain. 

18* 


210  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1809. 

indignation  of  the  whole  country.  The  president  ordered 
all  British  ships  immediately  to  leave  the  coast  of  the 
United  States,  and  sent  instructions  to  our  minister  at  Lon- 
don to  demand  redress,  and  security  against  future  aggres- 
sions. No  satisfaction  being  obtained,  and  the  British 
government  having  solemnly  asserted  the  "  right  of  search 
and  im-pressmeni^^  a  Special  Congress  was  called  on  the 
27th  of  October,  to  decide  what  measures  should  be  adopt- 
ed. About  this  time,  news  arrived  that  laws  had  been 
passed  in  England  and  France,  which  exposed  all  American 
vessels  to  seizure  and  condemnation. 

15.  Several  measures  were  adopted  at  this  session  of  con- 
gress for  increasing  our  land  and  naval  force,  and  on  the 
22d  of  December,  1807,  was  passed  the  famous  "Embargo" 
law,  forbidding  American  vessels  to  leave  their  ports.  This 
was  regarded  as  a  measure  best  fitted  to  the  present  crisis. 
This  would  preserve  our  seamen,  ships,  and  merchandise 
from  the  dangers  which  threatened  them  on  the  ocean,  and 
it  was  beheved,  would  compel  England  and  France  to  an- 
nul their  obnoxious  decrees,  by  depriving  them  of  the  bene- 
fit derived  from  the  trade  of  the  (jnited  States.  As  it  put 
a  stop  to  commerce,  its  effects  were  soon  felt  throughout 
our  country,  especially  in  our  large  cities  and  the  eastern 
states.  In  these  the  embargo  was  very  unpopular ;  and 
the  federal  party  denounced  it  as  an  unwise,  oppressive, 
and  uncalled-for  measure. 

1 6.  As  the  embargo  did  not  produce  the  eflfects  anticipated 
on  Great  Britain  and  France,  it  was  repealed  on  the  1st  of 
March,  1809,  and  an  act  prohibiting  all  intercourse  with 
these  two  nations,  was  substituted  in  its  place.  In  1808, 
Mr.  Jefferson,  having   declared  his  determination  to  retire 

dent  do?  What  instriictions  were  sent  to  our  minister  at  London  ?  What 
was  done  ?     When  was  congress  assembled  ? 

15.  Wliat  measure  was  resorted  to  by  our  government?  What  is  an 
embargo  ?  Ans.  It  is  an  act  prohibiting  or  preventing  vessels  from  sailing  out 
of  port  for  a  limited  time.  Why  was  this  act  passed  ?  When?  How  was  it 
regarded  by  the  people  of  the  United  States  ? 

16.  Wbere  do  you  suppose  its  effects  were  most  severely  felt,  in  Europe 
or  the  United  States  ?  When  was  it  repealed  ?  What  act  was  substituted 
in  its  place  ?  By  whom  was  Mr.  Jefferson  succeeded  ?  How  many  years 
was  Mr.  Jefferson  president  ? 


1809.      ,    %        Madison's  administration.  211 

from  public  life,  was  succeeded  in  the  presidency  by  James 
Madison.*     George  Clinton  was  re-elected  vice-president. 


MADISON'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  Mr.  Madison  entered  on  the  duties  of  his  office,  the 
4th  of  March,  1809.  He  found  the  United  States  in  a 
gloomy  and  perilous  situation.  England  and  France  were 
still  at  war,  and  pursuing  measures  which  threatened  the 
entire  destruction  of  American  commerce.  The  affairs  of 
the  nation  were  in  a  very  unsettled  state,  and  becoming 
every  day  more  and  more  embarrassed.  British  ships  were 
constantly  arriving  on  our  coast,  searching  our  vessels,  im- 
pressing our  seamen,  and  adding  iiisult  to  injury. 

2.  In  April,  Mr.  Erskine,  the  British  minister  at  Wash- 
ington, engaged,  on  the  part  of  his  government,  that  the 
orders  in  council  should  be  rev^oked  after  the  1 0th  day  of  the 
following  June.  The  president  immediately  issued  his  pro- 
clamation giving  notice  oi  this  fact,  and  also  that  our  inter- 
course with  Great  Britain  would  be  renewed  after  the  time 
above  specified.  This  produced  great  joy  throughout  our 
country,  but  ended  in  vexation  and  disappointment.  The 
British  ministry  refused  to  ratify  this  arrangement,  declaring 
that  Mr.  Erskine  had  no  authority  to  make  it.  He  was 
soon  after  recalled,  and  Mr.  Jackson  appointed  to  succeed 
him. 

3.  In  a  correspondence  with  Mr.  Smith,  secretary  of  state, 
Mr.  Jackson  insinuated  that  the  United  States  government 

1.  When  did  Mr.  Madison  enter  on  the  duties  of  his  office?  What  was 
the  situation  of  the  United  States  at  that  time  ? 

2,  3.  W^hat  did  Mr.  Erskine  do,  and  what  was  the  result  ?  Who  succeeded 
Mr.  Erskine,  and  what  was  his  conduct  ? 

*  James  Madison  was  born  in  Virginia,  on  the  17th  of  March,  1750,  and  at  the  age 
of  twenty  five,  was  a  member  of  the  legislature  of  that  state.  In  1776,  he  waschoeea 
one  of  the  delegates  to  the  continental  congress,  and  assisted  afterward  in  framing 
the  constitution  of  the  United  States.  He  was  a  member  of  congress  after  the  adoption 
of  that  instrument,  for  several  years ;  was  made  secretary  of  state  under  President 
Jefferson,  in  1801 ;  and  inaugurated  as  president  of  the  United  States,  on  the  4th  of 
March,  1809.  At  the  end  of  his  term  he  was  again  elected,  and  retired  to  private 
life,  in  1817.    He  died  June  28, 1836. 


212 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1811. 


knew  that  Mr.  Erskine  was  not  authorized  to  make  the 
arrangement.  The  secretary  at  once  denied  this ;  but  Mr- 
Jackson  subsequently  repeated  it  in  a  very  offensive  manner. 
He  was  immediately  informed,  by  the  president,  that  in 
consequence  of  his  indecorous  conduct,  no  further  communi- 
cations would  be  received  from  him.  Soon  after  this  he 
was  recalled  by  his  government.  Thus,  instead  of  produc- 
ing a  reconciliation,  these  movements  tended  only  to  aggra- 
vate the  hostile  feelings  of  the  two  nations. 


THE   FRIGATES   PRESIDENT   AND   LITTLE  BELT. 

4.  In  the  mean  time  depredations  were  contii\ually  com- 
mitted on  our  commerce.  British  cruisers  were  stationed 
before  our  harbors  tind  off  our  coast,  who  made  it  a  point  to 
harass,  search,  and  examine  our  vessels,  both  those  going 
out  and  those  coming  in.  By  this  means  the  public  mind 
was  kept  constantly  inflamed.  A  novel  incident  that 
occurred  about  this  time,  served  rather  to  increase,  than  to 
allay  this  state  of  feeling.  Captain  Rogers,  in  the  frigate 
President,  fell  in  with  a  vessel  on  the  coast  of  Virginia,  in 
the  evening  of  the  11  th  of  May,  1811.     Being  hailed  by 

4.  What  were  the  British  doing  in  the  mean  time  ?  Among  the  British 
cruisers  on  our  coast,  which  was  the  most  active  in  searching  our  vessels  and 


1811.  Madison's  administration.  213 

Rogers,  the  commander  of  the  vessel,  instead  of  replying-, 
fired  a  gun,  which  struck  the  mainmast  of  the  President* 
Upon  this,  Rogers  poured  a  broadside  into  her,  which 
silenced  most  of  her  guns,  and  killed  and  wounded  32  of  her 
men.  Being  hailed  again,  an  answer  was  immediately 
given  that  it  was  the  Little  Belt,  a  British  sloop  of  war, 
of  18  guns,  commanded  by  Captain  Bingham.  This  was 
the  first  check  the  British  commanders  had  received  from 
us  on  the  ocean.  The  sloop  was  thus  justly  punished  for 
her  insolent  treatment  of  several  American  vessels. 

5.  In  the  midst  of  our  difficulties  with  France  and  Eng- 
land, our  frontiers  were  threatened  with  an  Indian  war. 
There  existed  at  that  time  a  celebrated  chief,  named 
Tecumseh,  He  was  distinguished  for  his  ambition,  talents, 
and  energy  of  character,  but  above  all,  for  his  enmity  to  the 
whites.  He  was  determined  to  put  an  effectual  barrier  to 
the  further  extension  of  our  settlements.  And  for  this  pur- 
pose, he  resorted  to  every  artifice  to  stir  up  the  minds  of  the 
Indians  against  us.  Aided  by  his  brother,  the  Prophet,  he 
formed  an  alliance  with  the  northwestern  tribes,  and  en- 
couraged by  British  agents,  was  preparing  for  open  hostili- 
ties against  the  United  States.  In  1811,  General  Harrison, 
then  governor  of  Indiana,  held  a  council*  with  the  chiefs 
of  several  tribes,  at  Vincennes,  at  which  Tecumseh  was 
present.  By  his  influence  the  council  was  broken  up,  and 
nothing  short  of  war  was  expected  to  result. 

insulting  the  crews  ?     Ans.  The  Little  Belt,  commanded  by  Captain  Bing- 
ham.    What  occurred  on  the  coast  of  Virginia? 

5.  With  what  were  our  frontiers  threatened  ?  For  what  was  Tecumseh 
distinguislied  ?     When  and  by  whom  was  a  council  held  ? 

*  Tecumseh  was  not  present  when  the  council  assembled.  He  entered,  however, 
soon  after,  and  was  informed  that  his  father,  meaning  General  Harrison,  had  reserv- 
ed a  seat  for  him  next  himself.  "  My  father  !"  said  Tecumseh,  "my  father  !  The 
Great  Spirit  is  my  father,  the  earth  is  my  mother,  and  upon  her  breast  will  I  re- 
cline." Saying  this,  he  seated  himself  upon  the  ground  at  some  distance  from  Har- 
rison. Tecumseh  boldly  remonstrated  in  the  council  against  a  purchase  the  whites 
had  lately  made  from  the  Kickapoos  and  some  other  tribes.  In  a  strain  of  wonder- 
ful eloquence,  he  inveighed  against  the  encroachments  of  the  Americans, — gave  a 
faithful  history  of  the  progress  of  the  settlements,  from  the  first  commencement  oa 
the  Delaware,  to  the  moment  at  which  he  spoke.  When  answered  by  General 
Harrison,  he  grasped  his  tomahawk,  in  a  fit  of  phrensy,  and  boldly  charged  him 
with  having  uttered  what  was  false.  The  warriors  who  attended  him,  twenty  or 
thirty  in  number,  followed  his  example.  But  Harrison  had  fortunately  posted  a 
guard  of  soldiers  near,  who  put  a  stop  to  their  fury. 


214 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1811. 


6.  Soon  after  this,  every  thing  on  the  part  of  the  Indians 
appeared  to  indicate  approaching  hostilities,  and  General 
Harrison  was  sent  into  their  territories,  with  a  body  of 
troops,  to  demand  an  explanation  and  to  put  a  stop  to  their 
hostile  designs.  As  he  was  approaching  one  of  their 
towns,  situated  on  the  Tippecanoe,  a  branch  of  the  Wabash, 
he  met  several  chiefs,  who  oifering  terms  of  peace  and  sub- 
mission, persuaded  him  to  encamp  for  the  night,  as  it  was 
then  too  late  to  enter  upon  business. 


7.  Before  morning,  however,  the  savages  made  a  furious 
assault  upon  the  camp.  But  the  whites  were  prepared  to 
receive  them.  For  Harrison,  knowing  the  treachery  of  his 
enemies,  ordered  his  men  to  sleep  upon  their  arms,  and  made 
every  preparation  against  surprise.  After  a  severe  struggle, 
and  heavy  loss  on  both  sides,  the  Indians  were  finally  re- 
pulsed.    Harrison  destroyed  their  towns,  and  erected  such 


6.  Who  was  sent  against  the  Indians  ?  Why  ?  What  happened  as  he  was 
approaching  one  of  their  towns? 

7.  What  took  place  next  morning ?  What  was  the  result?  What  was  this 
battle  called  ?  Ans.  The  battle  of  Tippecanoe.  Was  Tecumseh  present  at 
the  battle  ?    Ans.  No,  he  had  gone  to  visit  the  Creeks  and  Seminoles. 


v  I 


1812.  Madison's  administration*.  215 

forts-  as  seemed  necessary  for  the  protection  of  the  frontiers, 
and  returned. 

8.  The  conduct  of  Great  Britain  became  daily  more  and 
more  grievous  to  the  nation.  Since  1803,  her  cruisers  had 
captured  nine  hundred  of  our  vessels,  and  impressed  more 
than  seven  thousand  of  our  seamen.  The  patience  of  the 
nation  was  exhausted.  Congress  was  assembled  by  procla- 
mation on  the  5th  of  November,  1811,  and  the  president 
laid  before  them  the  state  of  our  foreign  relations,  and 
recommended  that  measures  should  be  immediately  adopted 
to  maintain  the  honor  and  interests  of  the  nation.  Laws 
were  soon  after  passed,  authorizing  the  president  to  make 
preparation  for  war,  to  increase  the  army,  to  enlarge  the 
navy,  and  to  borrow  money.  On  the  3d  of  April,  1812, 
congress  laid  an  embargo  for  ninety  days  on  all  vessels 
within  the  jurisdiction  of  the  United  States.  Although  our 
government  was  busily  engaged  in  making  preparation  for 
war,  a  hope  was  still  cherished,  that  some  change  in  the 
policy  of  Great  Britain  would  render  an  appeal  to  arms  un- 
necessary. But  perceiving  no  prospect  of  such  a  change, 
congress  declared  war  against  that  nation  on  the  18th  of 
June,  1812.* 

9.  This  highly  important  and  eventful  act  was  variously 
received.  In  some  places  it  produced  the  highest  demonstra- 
tions of  joy  ;  in  others,  especially  the  comny^rcial  sections 
of  our  country,  it  was  the  cause  of  gloom  and  despondency. 
Although  a  majority  of  the  nation  were  in  favor  of  the  war, 
the  federal  party  was  opposed  to  the  measure,  on  the  ground 
that  an  accommodation  with  England  might  have  been 
made,  and  that  we  were  unprepared  for  so  serious  a  contest ; 


8.  What  was  the  conduct  of  Great  Britain  ?  How  many  of  our  vessels  had 
been  captured  ?  Seamen  impressed  ?  Do  you  think  there  were  any  just 
causes  for  war  ?     W^hat  did  congress  do  ?     When  was  war  declared  ? 

9.  How  was  this  act  regarded  by  the  nation?  What  did  the  "Peace 
Party"  do  ? 


'  The  bill  declaring  war  against  Great  Britain  passed  the  house  of  representa- 
tives, June  4th,  1812,  by  a  majority  of  79  to  49.  It  passed  the  senate,  June  7th,  by  a 
majority  of  19  to  13,  and  on  the  18th,  received  the  signature  of  the  president.  The 
representatives  of  congress,  belonging  to  the  federal  party,  presented  a  solemn  pro- 
test against  the  declaration  of  war,— denying  it  to  be  either  "  necessary,  or  required 
by  any  moral  duty,  or  political  expediency." 


3fl$  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1812. 

and  some  even  denounced  it  as  unnecessary,  impolitic,  and 
immoral.  These  organized  themselves  under  the  title  of  the 
"  Peace  Partj/,^'  and  exerted  all  their  influence  against  the 
operations  of  government.  Unanimity  in  so  important  a 
measure  was  not  to  be  expected ;  yet  the  opposition  of  so 
great  a  portion  of  the  population,  of  the  talents  and  wealth 
of  the  comitry,  tended  to  throw  embarrassments  on  its  prosecu- 
tion, which  were  greatly  felt  throughout  the  whole  struggle. 

10.  In  some  respects,  the  nation  was  much  better  situated 
for  war,  than  at  the  commencement  of  the  Revolution.  It 
710W  had  an  ethcient  government.  Its  population  had 
increased  from  three  to  eiglit  millions,  and  its  pecuniary 
resources  had  multiplied  in  a  still  greater  ratio.  In  other 
respects  its  situation  was  less  favorable.  At  the  commence- 
ment of  the  Revolution,  the  nation  was  imited  in  the 
measure,  and  they  were  comparatively  a  warlike  people ;  for 
they  had  been  trained  up  in  the  French  and  Indians  wars, 
and  had  able  and  experienced  commanders.  But  in  1812, 
the  situation  of  things  was  very  different.  The  nation  had 
enjoyed  the  blessings  of  peace  and  prosperity  for  about 
thirty  years.  During  this  time  they  had  in  a  measure  lost 
their  military  character,  and  there  were  no  officers  in  whom 
entire  confidence  could  be  placed.  Our  oldest  revolutionary 
heroes  slept  in  honored  graves,  and  those  who  remained  were 
fi\r  advanced  in  life,  and  but  poorly  qualitied  for  the  active 
duties  of  the  camp  and  field.  Such  was  the  situation  of 
things  at  the  commencement  of  hostilities. 

11.  Soon  after  war  was  declared,  preparations  were  made 
for  the  invasion  of  Canada.  Three  armies  were  asseinblei\; 
one  at  Detroit*  under  General  Hull,  then  governor  of  Michi- 
gan territory  ;  another  at  Lewistownf  under  General  Van 
Rensselaer ;  a  third  at  Plattsburgh|  under  General  Dear- 
ie. Was  the  nation  »s  well  prepared  for  war  as  in  1775? 

11.  Wlmt  prcpur.'Uions  were  made  soon  after  war  was  declared?     How 


*  Detroit,  capital  of  Michigan,  situated  on  Detroit  river,  between  Lake  Erie  and 
Lake  St.  Clair. 

t  Lewistt>wn,  in  New  York,  situated  on  Niaeara  river,  opposite  QueenstoM'n,  7 
miles  bf  low  Niagara  falls,  iiml  '27k  north  of  ButTslo. 

;  PliUtshurgh,  atowu  in  New  York,  situated  on  Lake  Ohamplain,  63  miles  south 
of  Montreal. 


1812.  Madison's  administration,  217 

born,  the  Commander-in-chief  of  the  American  army.  The 
British  had  a  regular  army  of  6,000  men  in  Canada;  and 
they  had  formed  an  extensive  aUiance  with  the  Indians. 
Tecumseh  had  been  raised  to  the  rank  of  general  in  the 
British  army  ;  and  by  his  influence  thousands  of  savage 
warriors  were  induced  to  take  up  arms  against  the  Ameri- 
cans. 

12.  On  the  12th  of  July,  General  Hull  crossed  the  river 
Detroit  with  a  force  of  2,500  men,  with  the  object  of  march- 
ing on  Fort  Maiden,*  then  the  British  head-quarters,  and 
from  thence  proceedmg  to  Montreal.  '  On  the  same  day,  he 
addressed  a  proclamation  to  the  Canadians,  caUing  on  them 
to  submit  without  resistance,  promising  protection  to  their 
persons,  rights,  property,  &c.  On  the  15th,  Colonel  Cass,t 
with  280  men,  defeated  a  detachment  of  the  British  at  the 
river  Aux  Canards,  5  miles  from  Fort  Maiden,  and  advised 
Hull  to  march  immediately  against  the  fort.  Had  he  done 
so,  it  would  probably  have  fallen  an  easy  conquest.  But 
instead  of  pressing  on  and  striking  a  powerful  blow,  he 
ordered  Colonel  Cass  to  return  and  join  the  army.  After 
remaining  about  a  month  inactive  in  his  camp,  on  the  8th 
of  August,  in  spite  of  the  entreaties  of  his  officers  and  the 
indignation  of  his  troops,  he  returned  to  Detroit. 

13.  The  British  at  Maiden  were  soon  reinforced  by  the 
arrival  of  General  Brock,  the  governor  of  Canada.  He 
immediately  marched  against  Detroit,  at  the  head  of  330 
regulars,  400  mihtia,  and  600  Indians,  and  on  the  1 5th  of 
August  opened  a  heavy  cannonade  upon  the  town  from  the 
opposite  bank  of  the  river.  The  next  day  he  crossed  over 
with  his  troops,  and  advanced  toward  the  fort  in  close 
column,  and  twelve  deep.     The  Americans  were  judiciously 

many  and  where  were  the  armies  assembled?  Under  whom?  The  com- 
rnaiKlfr-in-chif^f? 

ILJ.  What  did  Gcnoral  Hull  do  on  the  12th  day  of  July  ?  On  the  8th  of 
August?     What  do  you  think  of  General  Hull? 

13.  What  did  the  British  do  soon  after?  What  did  General  Brock  do  on 
the  15th  of  August  ?     Relate  what  took  place  next  day. 


•  Maiden,  on  the  east  bank  of  the  Detroit  river,  .3  miles  above  its  entrance  into 
Lake  Eri*',  and  15  below  Detroit, 
t  Lewis  Cass  was  born  at  Exet'?r,  New  Hampshire,  ou  the  9th  of  Octoberi  1782. 

19 


218  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1812. 

disposed  to  receive  them.  The  miUtia  and  volunteers  were 
so  stationed  as  to  flank  the  enemy.  The  regulars  defended 
the  fort;  and  two  twenty-four  pounders,  charged  with 
grape  shot,  were  so  planted  as  to  sweep  the  whole  British 
line.  All  was  now  silent  expectation.  On  the  enemy 
came,  fearlessly,  but  apparently  to  certain  destruction.  Our 
troops,  confident  of  victory,  were  eager  for  the  contest. 

14.  They  had  now  arrived  within  500  yards  of  the  Ameri- 
can lines,  and  all  were  anxiously  waiting  the  signal 
for  the  artillery  to  open  upon  them  its  deadly  fire.  But 
instead  of  this,  Hull  ordered  the  troops  to  retire  within  the 
fort.  Here  they  were  commanded  to  stack  their  arms,  and 
to  the  astonishment  of  every  one,  a  white  flag,  in  token  of 
submission,  was  suspended  from  the  walls.  The  enemy 
were  as  much  astonished  as  the  Americans  at  this  result. 
A  capitulation  was  soon  agreed  upon,  by  which  the  army, 
the  fort,  and  the  whole  territory  of  Michigan,  were  sun'ender- 
ed  into  the  hands  of  the  British  !  This  disgraceful  event  ex- 
cited the  deepest  feelings  of  indignation  throughout  the 
country.* 

15.  On  the  13th  of  October,  Van  Rensselaer,  with  1,000 
troops,  crossed  the  river  Niagara  and  took  the  British  fort  at 
Glueenstown  by  storm.  While  they  were  rejoicing  over 
their  success.  General  Brock  arrived  with  600  fresh  troops. 
But  they  also  were  soon  defeated  by  the  Americans,  and 
Brock  himself  was  among  the  slain.  The  British  were 
soon  after  reinforced  again  by  1,000  men  ;  and  Van  Rensse- 
laer now  endeavored  to  transport  all  his  forces  across  the 
river.     But  the  militia  utterly  refused  to  pass  the  boundaiy 

14.  Do  you  suppose  Hull  possessed  that  energy,  firmness,  and  decision  of 
character,  that  always  distinguish  a  brave  and  skillful  officer?  What  do  you 
think  of  his  conduct  ? 

15.  What  took  place  on  the  13th  of  October,  1812?  Where  is  Queens- 
town?  Ans.  It  is  a  town  of  Upper  Canada,  situated  on  Niagara  river,  seven 
miles  below  Niagara  falls.  Why  would  not  the  militia  cross  over  ?  A71S.  They 
had  learned  that  the  constitution  did  not  require  the  militia  to  go  beyond  the 


'  Genera!  Hull  was  afterward  exchanged  for  thirty  British  prisoners.  Soon 
after  he  was  tried  by  a  court-martial,  found  guilty  of  cowardice  and  neglect  of  duty, 
and  Was  sentenced  to  be  shot,  but  was  recommended  to  mercy  in  consequence  of 
his  services  in  the  war  of  the  revokuion,  and  his  advanced  age.  The  president 
remitted  the  punishment,  but  deprived  him  of  all  mihtary  command. 


1812.  Madison's  administration.  210 

line.  He  urged,  entreated,  but  in  vain.  The  consequence 
was,  that  the  brave  troops  on  the  Canada  side  were  assailed 
bj  a  superior  force,  and  nearly  all  of  them  killed. 

16.  Van  Rensselaer,  having  received  a  wound,  resigned 
the  command,  and  was  succeeded  by  General  Smyth.  In  a 
very  boastful  manner,  Smyth  addressed  the  "  men  of  New 
York,"  complaining  of  the  management  of  the  former  gene- 
ral, and  calling  upon  them  to  join  his  standard,  and  march 
to  the  immediate  conquest  of  Canada.  He  soon  had  an 
army  of  4,500  men  under  his  command  ;  but  such  was  his 
delay  and  miscalculation,  that  nothing  was  effected  before 
they  were  obliged  to  return  to  winter  quarters.  Twice  the 
troops  embarked  to  cross  the  river,  but  landed  without  leav- 
ing the  shore.  His  men  were  disgusted,  and  all  were  indig- 
nant at  his  base  and  cowardly  conduct. 

17.  The  other  army,  under  General  Dearborn,  stationed 
near  Lake  Champlain,  effected  nothing  of  any  importance. 
Thus,  at  the  end  of  the  year  1812,  no  enterprise  worthy  of 
the  American  arms  had  been  accomplished.  Every  patriot 
was  mortified,  and  every  tongue  filled  with  complaint.  But, 
while  failure  and  disgrace  followed  the  movements  of  the 
army,  glory  and  success  attended  the  exploits  of  our  navy. 

18.  On  the  19th  of  August,  Captain  Hull,  in  the  frigate 
Constitution  fell  in  with  the  British  ship  Guerriere.  Her 
flags  were  flying  in  boastful  defiance.  On  one  of  them, 
were  the  words,  "  Not  the  Little  Belt."  The  Constitution 
bore  down,  her  crew  giving  three  cheers.  The  Guerriere 
now  opened  a  heavy  fire,  but  Hull,  wishing  to  gain  a  favor- 
able position,  received  it  without  returning  a  gun.  The 
enemy  attributed  this  to  want  of  skill;  but  the  wished-for 
moment  at  length  arrived.  The  Constitution  was  brought 
to  the  station  intended,  and  orders  were  given  to  fire  broad- 
side after  broadside.  Never  was  firing  more  dreadful.  For 
fifteen  minutes  the  Constitution's  guns  poured  forth   one 

limits  of  the  United  States,  and  they  possessed  neither  the  courage  nor  the 
magnanimity  to  go  to  the  assistance  of  their  comrades.  What  was  the  conse- 
quence of  their  refusal? 

16.  What  do  you  think  of  General  Smyth's  movements  ? 

17.  What  did  the  army  under  General  Dearborn  do  ? 

18.  Describe  the  capture  of  the  Guerriere. 


220 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1812 


r  O  N  S  T  I  T  l'   r  I  O  N      ,v  N  1>       O  I'  E  R  R  I  E  R  E  . 


continued  blaze,  and  their  thunder  roared  \vith  scarce  an 
intermission.  Every  mast  and  spar  of  the  Gueniere  was 
shot  away,  and  in  thirty  minutes,  she  lay  an  unmanageable 
wreck.  The  British  loss  in  this  action,  was  15  killed  and 
63  wounded,  while  that  of  the  Americans,  was  but  7  killed 
and  37  wounded.  The  Guerriere  was  so  much  damaged 
as  to  render  it  impossible  to  bring  her  into  port.  She  was 
therefore  set  on  hre  and  blown  up.  The  Constitution 
received  but  little  injury,  and  was  ready  for  action  the  next 
day. 

19.  On  the  18th  of  October,  near  the  Bermuda  Islands, 
Captain  Jones,  in  the  Wasp,  of  18  guns,  captured  the 
FroHc,  of  2"2  guns.  When  the  action  commenced  the  sea 
was  exceedingly  rough,  and  the  muzzles  of  the  guns  were 
often  under  water.     The   Frolic   tired  as  she  rose  on  the 


wave,  and  her  shot  went  over,  doin^  little  or  no 


mjuiy 


but 


the  Wasp  fired  as  she  sunk,  and  every  broadside  shattered 
the  hull  of  her  antagonist.  After  an  action  of  45  minutes 
the  Americans  boarded,  but  to  their  astonishment,  they 
found  but  three  officers  on  deck,  and  the  seaman  at  the 

19.  Describe  the  capture  of  the  Frolic. 


1812.  madison'b  administration.  221 

wheel.  The  decks  were  shppery  with  the  blood  of  the 
dead  and  the  dying.  Thirty  had  been  killed  and  fifty 
wounded.  The  Wasp  had  but  five  killed  and  five  slightly 
wounded.  This  was  unquestionably  the  most  severe  and 
decisive  action  during  the  war.  Shortly  after  the  battle, 
both  vessels  were  taken  by  a  British  seventy-four  and 
carried  into  the  Bermudas. 

20.  On  the  25th  of  October,  Captain  Decatur,*  in  the 
frigate  United  States,  of  44  guns,  fell  in  with  the  Macedo- 
nian, of  49  guns,  near  the  Western  Islands.  The  enemy 
had  decidedly  the  advantage,  but  after  an  action  of  an  hour 
and  a  half,  having  her  mizen  and  main-top-masts  shot 
away,  her  rigging  entirely  cut  to  pieces,  and  nearly  all  her 
guns  disabled,  the  Macedonian  surrendered.  She  had  36 
men  killed  and  G8  wounded,  while  the  United  States  had 
but  7  killed  and  5  wounded.  Decatur  towed  his  prize  into 
New  York,  where  he  was  received  with  the  highest  demon- 
strations of  joy. 

21.  On  the  30th  of  December,  off  the  coast  of  Brazil, 
Commodore  Bainbridge,  in  the  Constitution,  captured  the 
Java,  one  of  the  finest  vessels  of  her  class  in  the  British 
navy.  The  action  continued  three  hours.  The  Java  was 
reduced  to  a  mere  wreck  ;  her  captain  was  slain,  with  60  of 
the  crew,  and  101  wounded.  The  Constitution  had  34 
killed  and  wounded.  Such  was  the  glorious  beginning  of 
our  naval  warfare  against  Great  Britain ;  and  besides 
these  victories  of  the  navy,  our  privateers  had  taken  a  great 
number  of  merchant  vessels.  Over  500  prizes  were  made 
during  the  year.  The  British  were  astonished,  and  exceed- 
ingly mortified,  at  the  brilliant  success  of  our  little  navy, 
which  had  now  added  such  glory  to  the  American  name. 

22.  Mr.  Madison  was  re-elected  president  this  year,  not- 
withstanding the  violent  opposition  of  the  "^mce  party ^^ 


20.  Describe  the  capture  of  the  Macedonian. 

21.  The  Java.     How  many  prize.s  were  taken  in  1812  ? 

22.  Who  was  re-elected  president  in  1812  ?     Who  vice-president  ?     What 
state  was  admitted  into  the  Union  ? 


*  Stephen  Decatur  was  born  in  Maryland,  1779 ;  be  fell  in  a  duel  with  Commo- 
dore Barron,  in  1^0.    See  his  Life. 

19* 


222  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED   STATES.  1813. 

who  supported  De  Witt  Clinton,  of  New  York,  as  their 
candidate.  Elbridge  Gerry,  of  Massachusetts,  was  chosen 
vice-president.  During  this  year  Louisiana  was  admitted 
into  the  Union.     Thus  closed  the  important  events  of  1812. 


EVENTS  OP  1813. 


1.  The  administration  now  determined  to  prosecute  the 
war  with  new  vigor,  and,  if  possible,  retrieve  the  character 
of  the  army  by  the  reduction  of  Canada.  The  enthusiasm 
produced  by  the  success  of  the  navy,  inspired  the  land 
forces  with  eager  desire  to  accomplish  something  worthy  of 
the  nation.  The  president  was  authorized  to  raise  twentj^  new 
regiments,  increase  the  wages  of  the  soldiers,  build  eighteen 
ships  of  war,  and  to  supply  the  great  lakes  with  a  navy  of 
sufficient  force  to  compete  with  the  enemy. 

2.  Great  enthusiasm  now  prevailed  throughout  the  western 
states ;  volunteer  companies  were  formed  in  every  quarter, 
and  the  most  active  preparations  made  for  the  purpose  of 
regaining  possession  of  the  territory  of  Michigan.  An 
army  of  eight  thousand  volunteers  from  Kentucky  and 
Ohio,  under  command  of  General  Harrison,  marched  against 
the  enemy  in  that  quarter.  He  concentrated  his  forces  at 
Sandusky.  At  the  earnest  request  of  the  inhabitants  of 
Frenchtown,  a  detachment  of  eight  hundred  men,  under 
the  command  of  General  Winchester,  marched  to  defend 
that  place. 

3.  On  the  22d  of  January,  a  body  of  British  and  Indians, 
under  the  command  of  Colonel  Proctor,  having  crossed  the 
Detroit  river  on  the  ice,  made  a  furious  assault  upon  the 
camp  at  Frenchtown.  The  Americans  were  overpowered, 
more  than  three  hundred  were  slain,  and  several  hundred 
carried  prisoners  to  Maiden.    Over  sixty,  who  were  wounded 

1.  What  did  congress  authorize  the  president  to  do? 

2.  Why  were  volunteer  companies  formed  in  the  western  states  ?  Under 
■whose  command  were  they  placed  ?  Who  was  sent  to  the  defense  of  French 
town? 

3.  State  the  attack  upon  Frenchtown,  and  the  result. 


1813.  Madison's  administration.  223 

in  the  battle,  were  left  in  the  care  of  the  inhabitants  of  the 
town.  The  next  morning  the  savages  entered  the  place, 
set  fire  to  the  houses,  and  murdered  the  wounded  soldiers  in 
the  most  cruel  and  barbarous  manner. 

4.  Harrison  marched  soon  after  this  to  the  rapids  of  the 
Miami,  where  he  built  Fort  Meigs.  Here  he  was  besieged, 
on  the  1st  of  May,  by  a  party  of  British  and  Indians  from 
Maiden,  commanded  by  Colonel  Proctor.  General  Clay, 
with  twelve  hundred  Kentuckians,  marched  to  his  relief. 
The  enemy  were  at  once  attacked  and  put  to  flight ;  but 
afterward  returning,  they  surprised  the  Americans,  killed 
one  hundred  and  fifty,  and  took  five  hundred  prisoners.  The 
remainder  escaped  into  the  fort,  or  fled  to  the  nearest  settle- 
ments. The  enemy  continued  the  siege  till  the  9th  of 
May,  when,  their  Indian  allies  having  deserted,  the  whole 
force  withdrew. 

5.  The  British,  by  providing  a  respectable  navy  on  the 
lakes,  had  great  advantage  over  the  Americans.  Commo- 
dore Chauncey,  after  great  exertions,  procured  a  naval  force 
on  Lake  Ontario,  sufficient  to  compete  with  the  enemy.  On 
the  25th  of  April,  General  Dearborn,  with  seventeen  hun- 
dred men,  crossed  the  lake  for  the  attack  of  York,  the 
capital  of  Upper  Canada.  On  the  27th,  General  Pike,  a 
brave  young  officer,  after  carrying  the  battery  of  the  enemy 
at  the  point  of  the  bayonet,  led  on  his  men  to  the  main  works. 

6.  At  the  moment  his  troops  arrived,  the  enemy's  maga- 
zine blew  up,  and  made  terrible  havoc  among  them.  Pike 
was  mortally  wounded,  and  more  than  one  hundred  men 
were  killed  by  this  disaster.  But  the  Americans  pressed 
on,  and  soon  gained  possession  of  the  town.  The  dying 
Pike  smiled  in  triumph,  when  one  of  his  men  brought  the 
flag  of  the  enemy,  and  placed  it  under  his  head. 

4.  What  did  General  Harrison  do?  What  took  place  the  1st  of  May? 
Who  marched  to  his  relief?  How  many  of  these  troops  under  General  Clay 
■were  killed  and  taken  prisoners  ?  How  long  did  the  enemy  continue  the 
siege  ? 

5.  In  what  respect  had  the  British  the  advantage  on  the  lakes  ?  Who 
was  sent  to  prepare  us  a  navy  on  Lake  Ontario  ?  When  did  General  Dear- 
born cross  the  lake  ?     For  what  purpose  ?     What  did  General  Pike  do  ? 

6.  What  happened  as  he  led  on  his  troops  ?  What  were  Pike's  last  words  ? 
Ans.  "  Move  on,  ray  brave  fellows,  and  revenge  your  general." 


224  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1813. 

7.  During  General  Dearborn's  absence  on  this  expedition, 
about  one  thousand  British  troops  landed,  and  made  an 
attack  upon  Sackett's  Harbor,  the  29th  of  May.  The 
force,  at  this  place,  amounted  to  about  one  thousand  men, 
under  the  command  of  General  Brown.  A  considerable 
part  of  these  were  militia,  who  fled  in  great  confusion  at 
the  approach  of  the  enemy.  The  British  pressing  on,  soon 
compelled  the  regular  troops  to  retreat  into  the  houses  along 
the  road.  From  these  coverts  they  poured  a  deadly  fire 
upon  the  enemy,  which  checked  their  progress.  General 
Brown  had,  by  this  time,  succeeded  in  collecting  a  large 
number  of  the  panic-struck  militia,  and  was  leading  them 
by  a  circuitous  route  to  the  attack  of  the  enemy.  The 
British  commander,  supposing  their  object  was  to  fall  upon 
him  in  his  rear,  ordered  a  retreat  to  their  boats.  This  order 
was  obeyed  with  so  much  promptness  and  haste,  that  they 
left  behind  them  all  their  wounded  and  prisoners. 

8.  While  these  affairs  w^ere  going  on  at  the  north,  events 
of  great  interest  had  occurred  on  the  coast  of  the  Atlantic. 
The  success  of  the  American  navy  had  greatly  alarmed 
the  British  nation,  and  Admiral  Warren  had  been  sent  with 
a  powerful  fleet  to  line  the  whole  coast  of  the  United 
States,  and  interrupt  all  their  naval  operations. 

9.  A  number  of  ships  entered  the  Chesapeake  bay,  and 
made  great  havoc  among  our  merchant  vessels.  The 
British  landed,  plundered  and  burned  many  flourishing 
towns.  French  town,  Georgetown,  Hampton,  Havre  de 
Grace,  and  Fredericktown  were  destroyed.  An  attempt 
was  made  against  Norfolk,  but  after  the  loss  of  two  hun- 
dred men,  the  enemy  desisted. 

10.  While  the  British  were  blockading  the  Delaware,  the 
inhabitants  of  Lewistown   refused   to   supply   them   with 


7.  What  happened  while  General  Dearborn  was  absent?  Describe  the 
battle  ?  Do  you  suppose  General  Brown  thought  of  cutting  off  the  retreat  of 
the  British  ?  Why  were  the  British  soldiers  so  willing  to  obey  their  general 
at  this  time  ? 

8.  Who  was  sent  with  a  British  fleet  to  line  the  coast  of  the  United 
States? 

9.  What  did  they  do  in  Chesapeake  bay  ?  What  places  were  plundered 
and  burned  ? 

10.  In  what  harbor  was  Decatur  blockaded  ? 


1813.  Madison's  administration.  225 

water  and  provisions.  Enraged  at  this,' the  enemy  bom- 
barded and  endeavored  to  take  the  town  ;  but  they  were 
defeated.  At  this  time,  Decatur  having  entered  the  harbor 
of  New  London  with  the  United  States  and  his  prize,  the 
Macedonian,  was  blockaded  by  a  British  squadron,  under 
Commodore  Hardy.  Impatient  of  his  situation,  he  sent  a 
challenge  to  two  frigates  of  the  enemy,  but  it  was  not 
accepted. 

11.  But  the  powerful  force  of  the  British  did  not  prevent 
our  vessels  from  cruising  the  seas,  and  making  captures. 
On  the  23d  of  February,  Captain  Lawrence,  in  the  Hornet, 
fell  in  with  the  British  brig  Peacock,  of  about  equal  force. 
After  a  fierce  battle  of  fifteen  minutes,  the  Peacock  struck 
her  colors,  and  raised  a  signal  of  distress.  The  Americans 
lowered  their  boats,  but  before  they  could  get  away  all  her 
crew,  the  brig  went  down,  and  with  her  thirteen  of  her  own 
men,  and  four  of  the  Hornet's  men. 

12.  In  reward  for  this  exploit,  Lawrence  was  appointed 
to  the  command  of  the  Chesapeake.  She  was  then  block- 
aded in  Boston  harbor,  by  two  British  vessels.  Captain 
Brock,  of  the  British  frigate  Shannon,  sent  a  challenge  to 
Lawrence  to  meet  him  in  single  combat.  The  Chesa- 
peake was  in  bad  trim,  and  her  crew  raw  and  undis- 
ciplined. But  Lawrence,  inspired  with  hope  from  past  suc- 
cess, and  eager  for  new  trophies,  set  sail  on  the  first  of 
June,  and  the  two  vessels  soon  came  to  action. 

13.  The  battle  commenced  at  the  distance  of  pistol  shot, 
and  with  terrible  fury  on  both  sides.  The  Chesapeake 
soon  lost  her  foresail,  and  falling  a  little  in  the  rear,  was 
exposed  to  a  raking  fire  from  the  enemy.  Her  officers  were 
all  soon  killed  or  wounded,  her  chest  of  arms  blown  up, 
and  in  this  condition  she  was  boarded,  and  her  gallant 
crew  compelled  to  submit. 

14.  Soon  after  the  action  began,  Lawrence  received  a 

11.  Describe  the  battle  of  the  Hornet  and  the  Peacock? 

12.  What  appointment  did  Lawrence  receive?  Where  was  the  Chesa- 
peake then  lying  ?  Who  sent  a  challenge  to  Lawrence  ?  Was  the  Chesa- 
peake and  her  crew  well  prepared  for  a  severe  engagement  ? 

13.  Describe  the  battle  between  the  Chesapeake  and  the  Shannon. 

14.  What  were  the  last  words  of  Lawrence  ? 


226  IIISTOKT    OF    THE    UlflTED    STATES.  1S13. 

mortal  wouml,  ami  was  carried  below.  But  his  courage 
held  out  to  the  last  moment.  Being  asked  if  the  coloi-s 
should  be  struck,  he  replied,  ''  No,  they  shall  wave  while  I 
live.''  Even  after  his  crew  had  been  obliged  to  surrender, 
he  exclaimed,  in  the  agonies  of  death,  "Don't  give  up  the 
ship."  The  loss  was  great  on  both  sides.  Of  the  Ame- 
ricans, forty-seven  were  killed  and  ninety-seven  wounded. 
Of  the  enemy,  twenty-six  were  killed  and  tifty-seven  were 
wounded.  The  British  boasted  of  this  victory,  with  the 
most  extravagant  exultation.  The  Americans  deplored  the 
fate  of  the  brave  young  Lawrence. 

15.  In  the  month  of  August,  the  British  brig  Pelican 
captured  the  American  brig  Argus,  which  had  made  a  very 
successful  cruise  against  the  coasting  vessels  of  England. 
Another  action  took  place  on  the  5th  of  September,  between 
the  American  brig  Enterprise  and  the  British  brig  Boxer. 
The  Enterprise  was  victorious.  Both  commanders  were 
slain  in  the  action,  and  buried  side  by  side  in  Portland. 
American  privateers  were  successful  in  making  numerous 
pri;zes. 

16.  Let  us  now  turn  to  the  atfairs  of  the  north.  Early 
in  the  season,  Ci'unmodore  Perry  had  been  ordered  to 
Presque  Isle,  Pennsylvania,  to  prepare  a  fleet  for  the  pur- 
pose of  meeting  the  enemy  on  I^Ake  Erie.  By  the  tirst  of 
August,  after  triumphing  over  many  difiiculties,  he  had 
equipped  a  flotilla  of  nine  vessels,  carrying,  in  all,  flfty-four 
guns.  The  British  had  a  fleet  on  the  same  lake,  under 
the  command  of  Commodore  Barclay,  carrying  sixty-four 
guns. 

17.  The  two  squadrons  met  on  the  10th  of  September. 
The  wind  being  light,  they  approached  each  other  very 
slowly.  Perry  was  on  board  the  Lawrence,  which,  crowd- 
ing all  sail,  had  jrot  far  in  advance  of  the  other  vessels. 


1  ■>.  When  and  by  what  was  the  Argus  captured  ?  What  other  naval  action 
took  plai'o  alH>ut  tlus  time  '  Which  was  victorious  ?  Where  and  how  were 
the  conuuanders  bunod  '     Wlu^ro  is  Portland  ■ 

10.  M  what  time  did  Commodore  Perry  get  his  fleet  prepared  on  Lake 
Erie  ? 

17,  18.  Describe  the  battle  of  Lake  Erie  ?  How  did  Perry  describe  his  vic- 
tor)- to  General  Harrison  ? 


1813. 


MADISON  S    ADMINISTRATION. 


227 


and  was  obliged  to  sustain  the  whole  fire  of  the  enemy. 
After  a  contest  of  two  hours  with  two  vessels  of  nearly 
equal  size,  she  was  completely  disabled,  -and  all  her  crew, 
except  seven,  were  either  killed  or  wounded 


^r\  Xi,L 


^^,^^s^* 


18.  The  gallant  Perry  now  seized  his  flag,  and  passed 
in  an  open  boat,  exposed  to  the  enemy's  fire,  to  the  ship 
Niagara,  commanded  by  Captain  Elliott,  which  had,  by 
this  time,  come  up.  He  now  opened  upon  the  British  with 
terrible  effect.  Broadside  after  broadside  was  poured  into 
the  British  ships  with  unerring  aim.  He  broke  through 
their  line,  and  soon  compelled  one  vessel  after  another  to 
surrender.  The  whole  American  squadron  now  joining  in 
the  contest,  a  complete  and  decisive  victory  soon  followed. 
At  four  o'clock,  r.  m.,  he  dispatched  to  General  Hanison 
the  following  laconic  epistle,  ^'  We  have  met  the  enemy, 
and  they  are  ours."  This  brilliant  action  occasioned  great 
joy  throughout  the  nation. 

19.  General  Harrison,  who  was  then  at  Fort  Meigs, 
hearing  of  Perry's  victory,  marched  at  once  to  the  lake, 


19.  What  did  Harrison  now  do  '  Did  he  find  the  enemy  at  Fort  Maiden  ? 
Where  is  Maiden  '^  Did  he  find  them  at  Detroit  ?  To  what  place  had  they 
retreated  '. 


228  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1813. 


embarked,  and  crossed  over  for  the  purpose  of  attacking  the 
enemy  at  Fort  Maiden.  When  he  arrived  there,  however, 
he  found  that  the  British  and  Indians,  anticipating  his 
movements,  had  deserted  that  post,  also  Detroit,  and  had 
retreated  up  the  River  Thames  to  the  Moravian  villages. 

20.  Harrison,  by  rapid  pursuit,  overtook  them  on  the  5th 
of  October,  and  brought  them  to  action.  A  company  of 
mounted  riflemen  was  placed  in  front  of  the  line,  and  after 
the  first  fire  of  the  enemy,  they  were  ordered  to  charge. 
At  first  the  horses  recoiled ;  but  soon  they  rushed  on  with 
irresistible  fury,  and  breaking  through  the  ranks  of  the 
British,  compelled  them  to  throw  down  their  arms. 

21.  Upon  the  left,  the  onset  was  begun  by  Tecumseh 
with  great  fury.  Colonel  Richard  M.  Johnson,  who  com- 
manded that  flank  of  his  regiment,  received  a  galling  fire, 
which  he  returned  with  great  effect.  The  combat  raged 
with  increasing  fury,  while  the  Indians,  to  the  number  of 
twelve  or  fifteen  hundred,  seemed  determined  to  maintain 
their  ground  to  the  last.  The  terrible  voice  of  Tecumseh 
could'be  distinctly  heard  above  the  din  of  battle,  encouraging 
his  warriors,  who,  on  this  occasion,  fought  with  more  than 
Indian  courage. 

22.  An  incident  soon  occurred,  however,  which  decided 
the  contest.  Colonel  Johnson  rushed  toward  the  spot 
where  the  warriors,  clustering  around  their  undaunted  chief, 
appeared  resolved  to  perish  by  his  side.  In  a  moment  a 
hundred  rifles  were  aimed  at  Johnson,  whose  uniform,  and 
the  white  horse  which  he  rode,  rendered  him  a  conspicuous 
object.  His  horse  and  himself  received  a  number  of 
wounds  ;  and  his  holsters,  dress,  and  accoutrements  were 
pierced  with  bullets. 

23.  At  the  instant  his  horse  was  about  to  sink  under 
him,  the  daring  Kentuckian,  covered  with  blood  from  his 
wounds,  was  discovered  by  Tecumseh,  who,  having  dis- 
charged his  rifle,  sprang  forward  with  his  tomahawk ;  but, 
at  this  moment,  Johnson  discharged  a  pistol  at  his  breast, 

20,  21,  22.  Describe  the  battle  of  the  Thames  ?  Where  is  the  Thames  ? 
In  what  direction  from  us  ? 

23.  What  does  the  cut  represent  ? 


1813. 


Madison's  administration. 


229 


DEATH     OF     TKCUMSEH. 


and  both,  almost  at  the  same  instant,  fell  to  the  ground. 
The  Kentuckians  rushed  forward  to  the  rescue  of  their 
leader,  and  the  Indians,  no  longer  hearing  the  voice  of  Te- 
cumseh,  instantly  fled.  Thus  fell  the  most  celebrated 
Indian  warrior  that  ever  raised  the  tomahawk  against  us ; 
and  with  him  fell  the  last  hope  of  our  Indian  enemies. 

24.  In  the  early  part  of  this  year,  the  mediation  of 
Russia  was  offered  to  bring  about  peace  between  England 
and  the  United  States.  The  president  accepted  the  offer, 
and  appointed  Messrs.  Adams,  Gallatin,  and  Bayard  com- 
missioners to  negotiate  for  peace.  But  Great  Britain  re- 
fused to  treat  under  this  mediation. 

25.  In  order  to  defend  the  frontiers  against  the  British 
and  their  savage  allies,  the  American  forces  w^ere  divided 
into  small  companies,  which  were  liable  to  be  attacked  by 
greater  numbers,  and  entirely  cut  off.  During  the  summer, 
battles  were  fought  on  Stony  Creek  and  the  Beaver  Dams, 
in  which  the  enemy  were  successful.  On  the  first  of 
August,  General  Proctor,  with  twelve  hundred  men,  at- 
tacked Fort  Stephenson,  at  Lower  Sandusky,  defended  only 


24.  What  pownr  offered  to  mediate  between  us  and  England' 
the  i)iCHiiin,!;of  mediate  ? 
•j3.  What  other  battles  were  fought  during  the  summer? 

20 


What  is 


230  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1813. 

by  a  band  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  Americans,  under  the 
command  of  Major  Croghan.  The  enemy,  confident  of  victory, 
endeavored  to  carry  the  fort  by  storm ;  but  being  repulsed, 
with  the  loss  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  men,  they  thought  it  best 
to  retire.   The  garrison  had  but  one  killed  and  seven  wounded. 

26.  On  the  11th  of  November,  an  action  took  place  at 
Williamsburg,  on  the  St.  Lawrence,  in  which  both  parties 
claimed  the  victory.  In  December,  the  Americans  blew  up 
Fort  George,  and  set  fire  to  Newark,  a  neighboring  village, 
on  the  Niagara  river.  In  retaliation,  the  British  crossed 
the  Niagara,  and  burned  all  the  principal  towns  on  the  Ame- 
rican side  of  that  river. 

27.  While  these  things  were  transpiring  at  the  north,  the 
Creeks  and  Seminole  Indians  had  taken  up  the  hatchet, 
and  commenced  a  war  of  plunder  and  devastation.  They 
had  listened  to  the  persuasions  of  Tecumseh,  the  famous 
chief  and  mighty  warrior,  and  now  began  to  show  their 
hostility,  by  murdering  several  whites  in  their  neighbor- 
hood. The  people  on  the  Alabama  river,  alarmed  at  their 
danger,  took  refuge  in  Fort  Mims. 

28.  On  the  1 4th  of  August,  the  savages  surrounded  the 
fort,  cut  their  way  through  the  outworks,  set  fire  to  all  the 
buildings,  butchered  and  burned  men,  women,  and  children. 
Nearly  three  hundred  perished,  and  but  seventeen  escaped. 
The  whites,  indignant  at  these  cruelties,  resolved  on  ven- 
geance.    General  Jackson,*  at  the  head  of  thirty-five  hun- 

26.  What  took  place  in  November?     December? 

27.  In  what  new  war  were  the  United  States  involved  this  year?  By 
whom  were  they  instigated  to  hostilities  ? 

28.  What  took  place  the  14th  of  August?  Who  marched  against  the  In- 
dians ?     Where  did  General  Jackson  defeat  the  Indians  ? 

*  Andrew  Jackson  was  born  in  South  Carolina,  about  forty-five  miles  from  Cam- 
den, on  the  15th  of  March,  1767.  He  was  designed  for  the  chiu-ch,  and  commenced 
the  preparatory  studies ;  but  tliese  were  speedily  interrupted  by  the  war  of  the  rev- 
olution. At  the  age  of  fourteen,  he,  with  an  eider  brother,  joined  the  American 
army,  and  was  soon  after  captured  and  wounded.  On  his  liberation,  he  returned 
to  his  native  place,  and  commenced  studying  the  law.  In  1788,  he  removed  to 
Nashville,  in  Tennessee,  and  began  to  practice  with  great  success.  His  first  public 
appointment  was  that  of  di.strict  attorney,  in  1790  ;  and  at  nearly  the  same  time  he 
was  named  one  of  the  members  of  a  convention  to  frame  the  state  constitution.  In 
17%.  he  was  elected  a  representative  to  the  congre.ss  of  the  United  States,  and  sen- 
ator in  1797.  In  1799,  he  received  a  commission  as  major-genei-al  in  the  militia ;  and 
in  1814,  two  years  after  the  declaration  of  war  with  Great  Britain,  was  appointed 
to  the  same  rank  in  the  United  Stales  army.    In  March,  1821,  he  was  made  gov- 


1814,  Madison's  administration.  231 

dred  militia  from  Tennessee,  marched  into  the  Indian  terri- 
tory. These  troops  endured  great  hardships  from  the  want 
of  provisions,  while  traversing  a  gloomy  wilderness.  But 
in  several  battles,  at  Tallushatchie,  Talladega,  and  other 
places,  the  Indians  were  defeated  with  terrible  slaughter. 
Their  villages  were  burned,  and  their  country  laid  waste. 

29.  The  decisive  battle  was  fought  on  the  27th  of  March, 
1814,  at  the  Great  Bend  of  the  River  Tallapoosa.  Here, 
about  one  thousand  of  the  surviving  warriors  had  assem- 
bled, and  fortified  themselves.  General  Jackson,  with  a 
strong  reinforcement,  attacked  this  last  refuge  of  the 
enemy,  and  after  a  most  obstinate  struggle,  was  completely 
victorious.  About  eight  hundred  of  the  savages,  scorning 
to  yield,  fell  in  the  battle. 

30.  The  Indians  had  now  suffered  a  terrible  loss  by  the 
war.  More  than  two  thousand  of  their  ablest  warriors  had 
fallen,  and  their  towns  were  all  destroyed.  They  now 
began  to  sue  for  peace.*  A  treatj^  was  made  with  them  by 
General  Jackson,  and  he  and  his  brave  troops  were  permitted 
to  enjoy  an  honorable  but  short  repose. 


EVtNTS  OF  1814,  AND  END  OF  THE  WAR. 

1.  The  soldiers  and  officers  of  the  American  army  had 
now  acquired  that  degree  of  discipline  and  experience 
which  prepared  them  for  a  more  arduous  campaign.    Peace 

29.  Where  was  fought  the  decisive  battle  ? 

30.  Was  the  war  any  advantage  to  the  Indians?     Any  injury?     Why? 


ernor  of  the  Floridas,  by  President  Monroe  ;  again  elected  senator  of  the  United 
States,  in  1822 ;  elevated  to  the  presidency  in  1828  ;  and  again  elected,  in  1832,  to  the 
same  station.  On  the  expiration  of  his  second  term  of  office,  he  retired  to  the  Her- 
mitEige,  his  estate  near  Nashville,  and  spent  the  remainder  of  his  active  and  useful 
hie  in  retirement.  He  died,  .June  8lh,  1845.  The  news  of  his  death  spread  a  gloom 
over  the  nation,  and  a  united  people  attended  as  mourners  at  his  funeral,  desirous 
of  honoring  the  memory  of  the  departed  hero  and  patriot. 

•  Soon  after  the  battle  of  the  Great  Bend,  Weatherford,  the  principal  chief  of  the 
Creeks,  came  and  surrendered  himself  to  General  Jack.son,  addressing  him  as  fol- 
lows :  ''  I  am  in  your  power.  Do  with  me  what  you  please.  I  have  done  the  white 
people  all  the  harm  I  could.  I  have  fought  them',  and  fought  them  bravely.  There 
was  a  time  when  I  had  a  choice.  I  have  none  now — even  hope  is  ended.  Once  I 
could  animate  mv  warriors,  but  I  can  not  animate  the  dead.  They  can  no  longer 
hear  my  voice.  Their  bones  are  at  Tallushatchie,  Talladega,  Emuckfau,  and  Toho- 
peka.  While  there  was  a  chance  of  success,  I  never  supplicated  peace ;  but  my 
people  are  gone,  and  I  now  ask  it  for  my  nation  and  myself" 


232  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1814. 

having  been  concluded  in  Europe,  Great  Britain  shipped  an 
army  of  veteran  troops  for  the  invasion  of  the  United  States 
by  way  of  Canada. 

2.  On  the  3d  of  July,  Generals  Scott*  and  Ripley,  with 
three  thousand  men,  crossed  the  Niagara,  and  surprised  and 
took  possession  of  Fort  Erie  without  resistance.  The  next 
day,  General  Brown,  with  the  main  body  of  the  army,  ad- 
vanced agamst  the  enemy  at  Chippewa.  Here  he  found  a 
force  equal  to  his  own,  under  the  command  of  General 
Riall  On  the  5th,  both  armies  met  in  open  field.  The 
British  advanced  with  a  furious  charge,  which  put  a  part 
of  the  American  line  to  flight.  But  this  breach  was  soon 
repaired  by  the  bravery  of  the  troops  under  Major  Jessup. 
The  enemy  was  completely  routed,  and  after  a  loss  of  five 
hundred  men,  retreated  to  their  fortifications.  This  may 
be  considered  the  first  regular  pitched  battle  during  the  war, 
and  furnished  a  convincing  proof  that  nothing  but  discipline 
was  wanting  to  give  to  our  soldiers  on  land  the  same  ex- 
cellence that  our  seamen  had  exhibited  on  the  ocean,  f 

3.  General  Riall,  soon  after  his  defeat,  retired  to  Bur- 
lington Heights.  After  a  few  days,  he  was  strongly  rein- 
forced there  by  General  Drummond,  who  assumed  the  com- 
mand, and  led  back  the  army  toward  the  Amerfcan  lines. 

1 .  Why  were  the  British  enabled  to  send  more  troops  to  the  United  States 
at  this  time  than  at  any  former  period  ? 

2.  When  did  General  Brown  cross  the  Niagara?  Fort  Erie  is  on  the 
Canada  side  of  the  Niagara  river.     Describe  the  battle  of  Chippewa. 

3.  Describe  the  battle  of  Bridgewater,  or  Lundy's  Lane,  What  question 
did  General  Ripley  put  to  Colonel  Miller  ?     What  was  his  reply  ? 

*  General  Wiiifield  Scott  was  born  near  Petersburg,  Virginia,  on  the  I3th  of  June, 
1786.  In  May,  1808,  he  received  a  captain's  commission  in  the  army  of  the  United 
States.  He  gradually  rose  from  that  office,  by  hfs  bravery  and  talents,  to  the  distin- 
guished post  of  commander-in-chief  of  the  United  States  army. 

t  It  is  said  that  Major  Jessup,  suspecting  that  his  troops  had  expended  nearly  all 
their  cartridges,  passed  along  the  rear  of  the  line  to  make  inquiry  as  to  the  fact. 
Several  soldiers  who  lay  mortally  wounded,  some  of  them  actually  in  the  agonies 
of  death,  hearing  the  inquiry,  forgot,  for  a  moment,  in  their  devotion  to  their 
country,  both  the  pain  they  endured  and  the  approach  of  death,  and  called  out, 
each  one  for  himself,  -'Here  are  cartridges  in  my  box,  take  and  distribute  them 
among  my  companions."  A  soldier  in  the  line  exclaimed  to  Major  Jessup  as  he 
was  passiug,  "  My  musket  is  shot  to  pieces."'  His  comrade,  who  lay  expiring  with 
his  wounds  at  the  distance  of  a  few  feet,  replied  in  a  voice  scarcely  audible,  '•  My 
musket  is  in  excellent  order,  take  and  use  her."  It  is  not  extravagant  to  assert, 
that  an  army  of  such  men,  commanded  by  officers  of  corresponding  merit,  is  liter- 
ally invincible. 


1814. 


MADISON  S    ADMINISTRATION. 


233 


BATTLE      OF     BRIDGEWATER. 


General  Brown  being  encamped  at  Chippewa,  and  learning 
that  the  British  army  was  advancing,  ordered  Creneral 
Scott,  with  his  brigade,  and  Towson's  artillery,  to  march 
forward  with  all  speed,  and  divert  the  attention  of  the 
enemy,  while  the  rest  of  the  army  was  put  in  motion. 
When  Scott  arrived  opposite  the  cataract  of  Niagara,  he 
became  apprised  of  the  enemy's  presence  and  force.  He 
instantly  marched  on,  and  the  two  armies  engaged  at 
"  Lundy's  Lane,"  within  a  short  distance  of  the  Falls.  For 
more  than  an  hour  he  maintained  the  fight  against  a  force 
seven  times  his  number.  About  dark  General  Ripley  came 
up,  and  relieved  Scott's  exhausted  troops.  The  main  army, 
under  General  Brown,  arrived  soon  after,  and  the  contest 
was  renewed  with  great  fury.  The  Americans  suffered 
greatly  from  a  British  battery  stationed  on  a  commanding 
eminence.  General  Ripley,  feeling  that  this  battery  must 
be  silenced,  or  the  victory  lost,  said  to  Colonel  Miller,  "  Can 
you  storm  that  battery?"  "I  will  try,  sir,"  he  promptly 
replied. 

4.  Placing  himself  at  the  head  of  the  21st  regiment, 

4.  What  did  Miller  do  ?    What  was  the  result  ? 
20* 


234  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1814. 

Miller  led  them  up  with  charged  bayonets  to  the  mouth  of 
the  blazing  cannon,  rushed  upon  the  artillerymen,  gained 
possession  of  the  battery,  and  turned  the  guns  upon  the 
enemy.  The  British  were  soon  after  reinforced,  and  made 
three  desperate  struggles  to  regain  the  eminence ;  but  the 
Americans,  with  obstinate  fury,  charged  them  in  front  and 
rear,  took  General  Riall  prisoner,  drove  them  from  the  hill, 
and  remained  in  possession  of  the  field.  The  battle  con- 
tinued until  midnight,  and  was  one  of  the  most  obstinate 
that  occurred  during  the  war.  The  British  force  engaged 
in  the  action  was  about  five  thousand  men,  and  that  of  the 
Americans  three  thousand  five  hundred.  Each  army  lost 
about  nine  hundred  men. 

5.  Generals  Brown  and  Scott  having  been  wounded,  the 
command  devolved  on  General  Ripley.  After  remaining  on 
the  hill  a  few  hours,  he  retired  to  Fort  Erie  and  there 
intrenched  himself  General  Gaines  arrived  soon  after  and 
took  the  chief  command.  On  the  4th  of  August,  he  was 
besieged  by  General  Drummond  at  the  head  of  5,000  men. 
On  the  15th  of  August,  the  enemy  made  a  furious  assault,  and 
endeavored  to  storm  the  batteries,  but  the  gamson  repulsed 
them  repeatedly  with  dreadful  carnage.  They  succeeded, 
however,  in  carrying  a  part  of  the  outworks,  but  just  at  this 
moment  a  large  magazine  exploded,  which  made  terrible 
slaughter  among  them.  After  a  loss  of  900  men,  they 
retreated.     The  garrison  lost  only  eighty-four. 

6.  The  enemy,  however,  continued  the  siege.  General 
Brown  having  taken  command  of  the  fort  on  the  17th  of 
September,  the  Americans  made  a  sally,  and  gaining  the 
rear,  charged  them  with  so  much  fury  that  they  fled  from 
their  inirenchments,  leaving  all  their  cannon  and  magazines 
in  the  hands  of  the  garrison.  About  1,000  of  the  British 
troops  were  killed,  wounded,  or  taken,  in  the  short  space  of 
one  hour.  Four  days  after  this  battle  the  enemy  retired 
from  the  fort,  and  relieved  the  garrison  from  their  dangers 
and  toils. 

5.  Where  did  the  American  forces  now  retire  ?  Describe  the  attack  on  Fort 
Erie  ?     What  was  the  result  ? 

6.  What  took  place  on  the  17th  of  September?    What  on  the  21st  ? 


1814,  Madison's  administration.  235 

7.  In  August,  General  Izard,  with  5,000  men,  was 
dispatched  to  the  Niagara  frontier  to  join  (jieneral  Brown, 
leaving  General  Macomb  in  command  at  Plattsburg  with 
only  1,500  troops.  The  British  in  Canada  resolved  to 
improve  this  favorable  opportunity  to  capture  that  important 
post.  Sir  George  Prevost,  at  the  head  of  14,000  veteran 
troops — most  of  whom  had  served  with  Wellington — -arrived 
at  Plattsburg  on  the  6th  of  September.  The  Ameiicans 
withdrew  across  the  Saranac,*  and  for  four  days  withstood 
all  attempts  of  the  enemy  to  cross  the  stream. 

8.  At  this  time  Commodore  M'Donough,  with  a  small 
fleet,  amounting  in  all  to  86  guns,  lay  at  anchor  in  the  har- 
bor. The  British  general  had  resolved  to  attack  the  fleet 
and  army  at  the  same  time;  and  for  this  purpose  he  had 
ordered  Captain  Downie  to  enter  the  bay  with  his  whole 
naval  force,  which,  carrying  95  guns,  was  superior  to  that 
of  the  Americans.  On  the  1 1th,  the  British  fleet  arrived 
and  anchored  within  60  rods  of  the  American  vessels. 
Both  parties  gave  three  cheers,  and  opened  their  fire. 

9.  The  roar  of  cannon  now  rolled  incessantly  across  the 
calm  and  peaceful  lake.  One  of  the  British  ships  had  her 
cable  shot  away,  and  drifting  into  the  American  fleet,  was 
soon  obliged  to  surrender.  In  two  hours  the  flag-ship  of 
the  enemy  struck  her  colors,  and  shortly  the  whole  fleet 
submitted  to  the  victorious  Americans.  On  shore  the  battle 
was  equally  furious,  but  not  so  decisive.  The  British  made 
three  desperate  attempts  to  cross  the  Saranac,  but  were 
as  often  driven  back  with  the  loss  of  many  men  killed  and 
wounded. 


7.  "WTiere  did  the  next  considerable  action  take  place  ?  How  many  soldiers 
marched  against  Plattsburgh  ?  When,  and  under  whom  ?  Who  commanded 
the  American  forces  ? 

8.  Who  commanded  the  American  fleet  on  Lake  Champlain  ?  What  was 
the  comparative  size  of  the  two  fleets?  What  took  place  on  the  11th  of  Sep- 
tember?    How  did  the  battle  commence  ? 

9.  Describe  the  battle  of  Lake  Champlain.     Describe  the  battle  on  shore. 


*  Saranac  river  runs  through  Plattsburg  and  empties  itself  into  Lake  Cham 
plain. 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1814. 


D  A  T  T  I-  K      ON      I,  \  K  K      C  H  A  M  P  I,  X  I  N  . 


10.  The  shout  of  victory  from  the  harbor,  while  it  dam- 
pened the  courage  of  the  Hritish,  excited  the  most  ardent 
enthusiasm  along  the  American  lines.  Repulsed  and  disap- 
pointed, the  enemy  hy  night  retreated  in  great  confusion, 
leaving  their  vvoundeil,  baggage,  and  stores,  in  the  hands  of 
the  conquerors.  The  loss  of  the  day  on  the  American  side 
was  230  men  ;  while  that  of  the  Hritish  amounted  to  '2, 700  ; 
a  part  of  this  number,  however,  deserted  from  the  retreating 
army.  This  decisive  action  put  an  end  to  the  war  on  the 
northern  frontier. 

11.  In  the  mean  time  the  British  had  made  a  successful 
invasion  of  the  count ly  bordering  on  the  Chesapeake.  On 
the  19th  of  August,  General  Koss,  with  5.000  troops,  landed 
at  Benedict,  on  the  Patuxent,  about  40  miles  from  Wash- 
ington. The  only  naval  force  there  to  oppose  them  was  a 
fleet  of  gun-boats,  under  Commotlore  I^xrney,  which,  on  the 
approach  of  the  enemy,  was  moved  up  the  river,  and  burned 
to  prevent  its  falling  into  their  hands.  Ross  soon  com- 
menced his  march  toward  Washington, 


10.  What  was  the  result  of  the  battles  of  Plattsburg  and  Champlain  ? 

11.  What  took  place  on  the  19th  of  August?      Toward  what  citjdid  Ross 
maix^h  his  tix>ops  ? 


1814.  MADIHOn's    ADMlNiSTIiAlION.  237 

12.  The  Americans  felt  great  alarm  at  the  progress  of 
this  powerful  army.  General  Winder,  the  American  com- 
mander, could  not  muster  more  than  about  1,000  regular 
troops,  and  2,000  militia,  to  oppose  the  march  of  the  enemy. 
On  the  24th,  the  Americans  were  attacked  at  Ijladensburg. 
At  first  they  made  a  vigorous  defense ;  but  the  superior  force 
of  the  British  soon  put  them  to  flight.  In  the  evening  of 
the  same  day  the  enemy  marched  into  Washington.  The 
inhabitants,  terrified  at  their  approach,  had  deserted  the 
city.  In  about  one  hour,  the  capitol,  president's  house,  and 
all  the  public  buildings,  were  in  flames.  The  ships  in  the 
navy-yard,  and  the  great  bridge  across  the  Potomac,  shared 
the  same  fate.  (Jn  the  next  day  the  British  left  the  city  ; 
and  soon  after  returned  to  their  fleet. 

13.  This  wanton  destruction  of  public  property  excited 
imiversai  indignation  and  regret,  not  only  throughout  this 
country,  but  throughout  Europe.  It  was  every  where  stig- 
matized as  a  deed  utterly  unworthy  of  a  civilized  nation, 
it  had  the  effect  of  rousing  the  whole  American  people  to 
more  vigorous  action.  The  other  cities  of  the  country  now 
made  every  exertion  for  defense. 

14.  About  the  same  time  a  detachment  of  the  enemy 
sailed  up  the  Potomac  and  attacked  Alexandria.  The 
citizens,  to  save  the  town  from  destruction,  gave  up  all  their 
shipping  and  merchandise.  General  Ross  now  determined 
to  attempt  the  capture  of  Baltimore.  On  the  12th  of  Sep- 
tember, 5,000  men  were  landed  at  North  Point,  fourteen 
miles  below  that  city.  Great  preparations  had  been  made  by 
the  inhabitants  for  defense,  and  about  1.5.000  men  were  in 
arms  ready  to  meet  the  enemy. 

15.  General   Ross,  as  he   was  marching  toward  Balti- 

12.  Who  commanded  the  American  forces?  How  large  was  his  army? 
Descriltc  the  haltle  of  Hladenshurg.  When  did  the  Hritish  enter  Washintiton  ? 
What  did  they  do  there?  Did  they  act  the  part  of  an  honorable  foe? 
Ann.  They  de.stroyed  valiiahle  lihraries,  works  of  taste,  and  elegant  specimens 
of  the  fine  arts.      Was  this  right  ' 

l.'i.  How  was  the  conduct  of  the  British  at  Washington  regarded  in  America 
and  Europe  ? 

14.  What  happened  at  Alexandria?  What  did  General  Ros.s  determine  to 
do  next  ?     Where  did  he  land  his  troops  ? 

15.  What  happened  as  he  was  marching  hxs  troops  toward  Baltimore? 


238 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1814. 


more,  was  met  by  a  strong  detachment  under  General 
Striker,  and  in  a  skirmish  received  a  mortal  wound.  His 
troops,  after  a  sharp  action,  advanced  and  took  position 
within  two  miles  of  the  American  lines.  In  the  mean  time 
the  British  fleet  had  attacked  Fort  M'Henry,  and  an  attempt 
was  made  to  land  and  carry  the  batteries  hj  storm,  but  it 


OMBARDMKNT     OK 


was  resisted  with  great  bravery.  After  this  repulse  of  the 
fleet,  the  army,  fearing  to  venture  a  battle  with  the  main 
body  of  the  American  forces,  retreated  ;  and  on  the  14th 
re-embarked,  and  soon  after  left  the  bay. 

16.  In  the  month  of  July  a  British  squadron  visited  the 
coast  of  New  England,  and  subjected  the  inhabitants  to 
great  losses  and  distress.  Numerous  attacks  were  made 
upon  the  unprotected  towns  and  harbors,  and  a  vast  amount 
of  property  destroyed.*     But  while  the  ports  of  the  country 

What  did  his  troops  do  ?  What  was  the  fleet  doing  in  the  mean  time  ?  The 
result  of  the  fleet  ?     Army  ? 

16.  What  happened  in  the  month  of  July  ?     Describe  the  capture  of  the 
What  British  vessels  were  captured  ? 


*  The  British  ascended  the  Connecticut  river  to  Pettipauisr,  or  Essex,  a  village  in 
the  town  of  Saybrook,  and  destroyed  sliipping  to  the  value  of  more  than  two  hun- 


1814.  Madison's  administration.  239 

were  blockaded  by  the  enemy,  our  public  vessels  and  priva- 
teers were  successfully  cruising  upon  the  open  ocean. 
Several  battles  were  fought,  which  added  new  luster  to  the 
rising  fame  of  the  American  navy.  Commodore  Porter,  in 
the  Essex,  had  made  numerous  prizes  on  the  Pacific  ocean. 
Alarmed  at  his  success,  the  British  sent  two  vessels  in  pur- 
suit of  him.  After  a  most  obstinate  defense,  in  which  the 
Americans  displayed  a  degree  of  bravery  and  perseverance 
truly  astonishing,  the  Essex  was  captured  in  the  ha,rbor  of 
Valparaiso.  Captain  Blakely,  in  the  sloop-of-war  Wasp, 
captured  two  British  vessels,  the  Reindeer  and  the  Avon, 
each  of  greater  force.  The  Wasp,  with  her  noble  crew, 
was  afterward  lost  at  sea. 

17.  In  the  latter  part  of  summer,  three  British  ships 
arrived  on  the  coast  of  Florida,*  and  entered  the  harbor  of 
Pensacola.  The  Spanish  authorities  allowed  them  to  land 
troops,  fit  out  expeditions,  and  to  distribute  arms  and  ammu- 
nition among  the  Spaniards  and  Indians.  General  Jackson, 
having  remonstrated  in  vain  with  the  governor  of  Pensa- 
cola, for  affording  shelter  and  protection  to  the  enemies  of 
the  United  States,  immediately  marched  against  the  city. 
On  his  arrival,  he  sent  a  flag  to  demand  redress  from^  the 
governor,  but  this  was  fired  on  from  the  batteries.  He  at 
once  led  on  his  men,  stormed  the  fort,  took  possession  of  the 
town,  and  compelled  the  British  to  leave  the  harbor. 

18.  Soon  after  this,  Gen.  Jackson  received  news  that  a 
powerful  fleet  had  left  the  West  Indies,  with  the  design  of 


17.  What  vessels  arrived  on  the  coast  of  Florida  ?  Under  what  government 
was  Florida  at  that  time  ?  Ans.  It  was  under  the  government  of  Spain. 
What  did  these  vessels  bring?  What  did  General  Jackson  do?  Did  the 
Spanish  governor  do  right  in  permitting  the  British  to  furnish  the  Indians  with 
arms  ?     Why  did  General  Jackson  take  Pensacola  ? 

18.  What  force  was  sent  against  New  Orleans  ?  What  did  General  Jack- 
son now  do?     How  did  he  fortify  the  city  ?  ' 

dred  thousand  dallars.  On  the  Rth  of  August,  while  a  British  fleet  was  lyinsr  off  the 
coast  of  NeAV  London,  a  brig  of  18  guns  was  sent  to  bombard  the  village  of  Stonmg- 
ton.  The  people  were  wholly  unprepared  for  the  attack.  At  length  two  18-pound- 
ers  were  found,  and  with  these,  so  active  and  well-directed  a  ih-e  was  kept  up  on  the 
brig,  that  she  was  greatly  damaged,  and  compelled  to  cut  her  cables,  and  retire, 
with  many  killed  and  wounded. 

*  Florida,  at  that  time,  was  a  S})ani£h  province.  In  1819,  it  was  ceded  by  Spain 
to  the  United  States,  and  in  1R22  it  was  erected  into  a  territorial  government. 


240  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1815. 

attacking  New  Orleans.  He  immediately  hastened  to  that 
city,  which  he  found  in  a  state  of  confusion  and  alarm.  He 
at  once  made  every  preparation  for  a  desperate  defense. 
His  presence  inspired  the  citizens  with  hope  and  courage, 
and  they  were  ready  to  second  every  effort  of  a  man  so 
justly  celebrated  in  war  for  activity,  prudence,  and  good 
fortune.  He  led  them  forth  in  person,  and  strongly  fortified 
every  point  which  a  vigorous  foe  would  be  hkely  to  assail. 
A  long  extent  of  breast-work,  constructed  of  cotton  bales 
and  other  impenetrable  materials,  was  soon  completed,  and 
cannon  mounted  so  as  to  sweep  the  whole  line. 

19.  A  small  squadron  of  gun-boats,  under  Lieutenant 
Jones,  was  stationed  to  oppose  the  entrance  of  the  enemy 
into  Lake  Borgne.  After  a  bloody  conflict  this  force  was 
overpowered,  and  the  British  ar^ny  advanced  and  took  post 
within  nine  miles  of  the  city.  General  Jackson,  wishing  to 
cut  off  all  intercourse  with  the  enemy,  and  knowing  that  a 
great  part  of  the  citizens  were  foreigners,  and  little  attached 
to  our  institutions,  placed  the  city  under  martial  law.  On 
the  23d  of  December,  the  Americans  sallied  forth,  and  made 
a  furious  assault  upon  the  camp  of  the  enemy,  and  after  a 
severe  contest  retired  to  their  intrenchments,  4  miles  below 
the  city. 

20.  On  the  8th  of  January,  1815,  Packenham,  the  British 
general,  with  an  army  of  more  than  12,000  men,  commenced 
a  determined  assault  upon  the  American  lines  on  both  sides 
of  the  river  Mississippi.  By  this  time  the  militia  from  the 
back  country,  and  volunteers  from  Kentucky  and  Tennessee, 
most  of  whom  were  experienced  riflemen,  had  amved  in 
considerable  numbers,  and  placed  themselves  under  General 
Jackson. 

21.  The  British  forces  advanced  in  two  columns  with  the 
most  determined  bravery.  When  they  had  approached 
within  sixty  rods  of  the  breast-works,  the  whole  artillery 


19.  Why  did  General  Jackson  put  the  city  under  martial  law?     What  took 
plaro  on  the  23d  of  December? 

20.  What  on  the  8lh  of  January?     Who  arrived  and  placed  themselves 
undnr  CTcnoral  Jack.^Jon  ! 

21.  How  did  the  Driliiih  advance?     What  rcccpUon  did  they  meet  with? 


1815. 


MADISON  S    ADMINISTRATION. 


241 


opened  upon  them  a  most  deadly  fire.  Forty  pieces  of 
cannon,  deeply  charged  with  grape-shot  and  musket-ballsj 
mowed  them  down  by  hundreds.  The  rear  ranks  marching 
over  the  dead,  advanced  only  to  meet  the  same  fate.  When 
they  came  within  musket-shot,  a  sheet  of  flame,  hke  a 
flash  of  light,  burst  from  the  American  lines.  Ranks  were 
cut  down,  whole  columns  swept  away,  and  the  plain  soon 
covered  with  the  dead  and  dying. 

22.  General  Packenham  was  killed  as  he  was  leading 
on  his  troops  to  the  charge.  General  Gibbs  fell  soon  after, 
and  General  Keene  was  borne  from  the  field  severely 
wounded.     No  troops  could  withstand  the  fire  of  the  Ameri- 


U  A  T  T  L  E      OK     N  t;  '.V     ORLEANS. 


cans.  It  was  one  continued  stream  pouring  on  the  enemy  an 
unceasing  tide  of  death.  The  battle  continued  for  one  hour 
and  a  quarter  with  undiminished  fury.  But  the  British 
having  lost  all  their  principal  officers,  now  fled  in  confusion, 
leavino;  more  than  2,000  dead  or  wounded  on  the  field.     Of 


22.  What  officers  were  killed  ?     How  lon^  did  the  battle  continue  ?    The 
res'ilt  ?     How  many  of  the  enemy  were  killed  and  wounded  ?     How  many 


Americans 


21 


242  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1815. 

the   Americans,    only    six    men    were    killed,   and    seven 
wounded. 

23.  On  the  other  side  of  the  river  the  enemy  were  more 
successful.  The  batteries  were  carried  by  storm,  and  48  of  the 
Americans  killed,  and  178  wounded.  But  disheartened  by 
the  loss  of  the  day,  the  British  reUnquished  their  design, 
and  soon  after  retreated  to  their  shipping.  News  of  this 
brave  defense  spread  rapidly  through  the  country,  and  in  the 
midst  of  their  joy,  congress  received  inteUigence  that  a  treaty 
of  peace  had  been  concluded.  Commissioners  of  the  United 
States  had  met  the  agents  of  Great  Britain,  and  signed  the 
treaty  at  Ghent,  on  the  25th  of  December,  1814.  It  was 
received  in  the  United  States,  February  11,  1815,  and  rati- 
fied by  the  president  and  senate  on  the  17th  of  the  same 
month. 

24.  Thus  closed  an  eventful  war  of  three  years.  The 
forbearance  of  the  United  States  under  the  unjust  and 
oppressive  measures  of  Great  Britain,  had  long  been  a  mat- 
ter of  reproach  in  the  eyes  of  all  Europe,  and  the  character 
of  the  American  people  was  fast  sinking  into  contempt. 
But  when  they  saw  the  proud  and  triumphant  navy  of  Eng- 
land successfully  assailed  by  that  of  the  United  States,  and 
her  best  frigates  compelled  to  strike  to  an  inferior  force, — 
when  they  saw  thousands  of  British  merchantmen  captured 
by  our  enterprising  seamen,  they  began  to  look  upon  us  with 
admiration  and  applause. 

25.  Unhappily,  during  the  war  a  violent  party  spirit 
had  prevailed,  which  greatly  divided  the  strength  of  the 
nation.  The  federalists,  generally,  had  been  opposed  to 
the  war  from  the  beginning;  and  their  opposition,  instead 
of  diminishing,  continued  to  increase.  In  the  eastern  states, 
where  a  majority  of  the  people  belonged  to  that  party,  com- 
plaints were  made  against  the  general  government, — that 


23.  When  was  peaco  concluded?  When  did  the  news  of  it  arrive  in  the 
United  States  ?  When  was  it  ratified  by  the  president  and  senate  ?  The 
commissioners  from  the  United  States,  that  formed  the  treaty,  were  John 
Quincy  Adams,  Albert  Gallatin,  James  A.  Bayard,  Henry  Clay,  and  Jonathan 
Rnssel. 

24.  How  long  had  the  war  continued  ?  How  were  we  looked  upon  by  the 
nations  of  Europe  at  the  close  of  the  war  ? 


1815.  MADISON  S    ADMINISTRATION.  243 

it  did  not  afford  them  proper  protection, — that  their  peculiar 
interests,  commerce  and  the  fisheries,  were  disregarded,  that 
the  war  was  badly  managed, — and  it  was  proposed  that  the 
militia  and  the  revenue  of  these  states  should  be  retained  at 
home  and  employed  for  their  own  defense  and  protection. 
In  October,  1814,  the  legislature  of  Massachusetts  recom- 
mended that  a  convention  from  the  eastern  states  be  held 
at  some  convenient  place,  to  inquire  what  ought  to  be 
done. 

26.  This  convention  met  at  Hartford,  December  15th. 
It  consisted  of  delegates  appointed  by  the  legislatures  of 
Massachusetts,  Connecticut  and  Rhode  Island, — and  two 
from  New  Hampshire  and  one  from  Vermont,  appointed 
by  county  meetings.  The  sittings  were  secret.  They 
remained  in  session  about  three  weeks,  and  after  adjourning, 
published  an  address,  charging  the  general  government  with 
pursuing  a  system  of  measures  unfriendly  to  the  interests  of 
the  eastern  states,  and  recommending  amendments  to  the 
federal  constitution.  A  committee  was  dispatched  to  Wash- 
ington to  confer  with  the  national  government ;  but  before 
it  reached  there,  the  news  of  peace  arrived,  which  arrested 
all  further  proceedings. 

27.  A  great  difference  of  opinion  has  existed,  with  regard 
to  the  motives  of  the  members  of  this  convention ;  but 
though  their  designs  may  have  been  perfectly  pure  and 
patriotic,  their  meeting  in  convention  under  circumstances 
of  so  much  difficulty  and  excitement,  has  been  generally  re- 
garded as  a  measure  highly  impolitic  and  unwise  ;  and  with 
many,  to  this  day,  "  The  Hartford  Convention"  is  but  a  title 
of  contempt.  Although  numerous  evils  attended  the  prose- 
cution of  the  war,  the  final  result  of  taking  up  arms,  was 
in  the  highest  degree  beneficial  to  the  nation.  Since  the 
close  of  this  war,  the  United  States  have  enjoyed  a  de- 


26.  When  did  the  "  Hartford  Convention"  meet  ?  How  many  states  sent 
delegates  ?  Did  this  state  send  any  ?  Why  were  their  sittings,  or  delibera- 
tions, conducted  with  closed  doors,  or  in  secret?  How  long  were  they  in 
session  ? 

27.  What  was  the  final  result  of  our  taking  up  arms  ?  What  has  been  the 
condition  of  the  United  States  since  the  close  of  the  war  ? 


*244  HllSTOKY     OK    THE    HMTEl)    STATKS.  181G. 

•;-iro  of  national  prosperity  unrqualod  in  the  history  of  the 
Avorld. 

*i8.  ImuuHliately  after  peace  was  estabhshed,  congress 
reduceil  the  army  to  the  nnniber  of  10,000  men,  and  adopted 
other  measures  suited  to  the  new.  state  of  the  country.  A 
number  of  our  ships  were  still  at  sea,  and  before  the  news 
of  peace  reached  them,  several  honorable  victories  were 
ixained.  The  Constitution,  after  a  severe  battle  with  two 
l^ritish  vessels,  the  Cyane  and  Levant,  whose  united  forces 
were  superior  to  hers,  captured  them  both.  Shortly  after,  in 
the  mouth  of  INlarch,  the  British  brig-  Penguin  was  taken  by 
the  Hornet,  although  of  superior  force. 

20.  At  this  time,  the  Algerines  were  again  committing 
dei)redations  upon  American  connnerce.  To  check  their 
aggressions,  Commodore  IVcatur  was  sent  with  a  fleet  of 
nine  vessels  into  the  Mediterranean.  After  capturing  two 
of  their  armed  vessels,  he  arrived  ott'  the  harbor  of  Algiers. 
The  Pey,  or  king-,  terrified  at  the  danger  of  losing  his  scat- 
tered navy,  was  obligeil  to  submit  to  any  terms  which  the 
Americans  should  propose.  Decatur  demanded  the  imme- 
diate release  of  all  American  captives,  and  sixty  thousand 
dollars,  as  a  compensation  for  our  ships  which  had  been 
plundered,  and  that  in  future,  no  tribute  should  be  required 
from  the  government  of  the  United  States.  These  terms 
were  at  once  accepted,  and  peace  was  concluded. 

30.  hi  1810,  an  act  was  passed  establishing-  a  bank  of 
the  United  States,  for  twenty  years,  with  a  capital  of 
35,000,000  dollars,  upon  principles  similar  to  those  contained 
in  the  charter  of  the  old  bank.  During  the  same  year, 
Indiana  was  admitted  into  the  Union.  'I'he  earliest  settle- 
ment in  this  state,  was  made  by  the  French  in  1694,  at 


'JS  To  what  number  did  congress  reduce  the  arrriy  in  1815  ?  Ans.  In  1821, 
it  rtiluooil  it  to  ti.tHX)  mon  Wliat  naval  engagements  took  place  after  peace 
\\ as  (.onohulod  ? 

•JD.  Who  was  s«M>t  airainst  the  Aljrerinos  ?  Whore  is  Algiers  ?  How  far  do 
you  suppose  .Mtiiers  is  iVom  us  '  In  IHlH)  the  Fnuieh  took  .\luiers.  aud  still 
nMaiu  possession  o(  it.      What  was  tlie  result  ol"  Deeatur's  expedition  ' 

30.  \\  hen  was  the  United  States  Hank  ehartered  ?  For  what  length  of  time 
was  It  eliartered  ?  Ans.  For  twenty  years,  or  until  the  3d  ot'  Maivh.  IS3G. 
When  was  Indiana  adnutted  into  the  Union?  Who  succeeded  Mr.  Rladisou 
in  tiie  presidency '? 


1818.      ,  mo.njcoe'h  aumikihtkation.  245 

Vincenncs.  It  forrnod  a  part  of  the  "Tf;rritory  northwest 
of  the  Ohio"  until  1801,  when  it  was  oroctod  into  a  territo- 
rial government.  At  the  next  presidential  election,  in  1817, 
Jarnes  Monroe  succeeded  Mr.  Madison  in  the  presidency, 
Daniel  D.  I'ornpkins  was  elected  vice-president. 


MONROE'S    ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  On  the  4th  of  March,  1817,  Mr.  Monroe  took  the  usual 
oath  of  office,  and  entered  ujKjn  the  duties  of  the  presidency. 
During  the  summer  after  his  inauf^uration,  he  rnadr  a  tour 
through  the  northern  and  eastern  states,  for  the  purjxjse  of 
giving  directions  respecting  certain  works  of  public  interest, 
the  fortification  of  the  sea-coast,  the  increase  of  the  navy, 
&c.,  which  were  unrler  his  superintendence.  Fie  was 
received  with  every  demonstration  of  affection  and  respect. 
At  the  next  session  of  congress,  honorable  provision  was 
made,  by  goverrjrnent,  for  the  comfortable  support  of  all 
officers  and  soldiers  of  the  revolution,  whose  circarnstances 
were  such  as  to  need  assistance. 

2.  The  general  peace  which  now  prevailed  throughout 
Europe  cut  off  many  sources  of  profitable  trade  to  American 
commerce.  Our  manufacturers  also  found  it  difficult  to 
compete  with  the  old  establi.shrnents  of  foreign  countries. 
In  this  state  of  affairs,  thousands  who  had  become  acquaint- 
ed with  the  fertile  lands  of  the  west,  emigrated  to  that 
region.  People  from  the  eastern  and  middle  states,  and 
from  foreign  countries,  began  to  pour  into  the  western 
country  in  vast  numbers  ;  and  new  states  were  added  to  the 
Union  in  rapid  succession. 

3.  Mississippi  was  admitted  in  1817.  The  first  settle- 
ment in  this  slate  was  made  by  the  French,  at  Natchez,  in 
1716.     In  December,  1818,  lUinois  was  acknowledged  as  a 

1.  When  WAH  Mr.  Monroe  inaugurated  ?  Wfiat  did  ha  do  hhortly  after  thiii  ? 
For  what  cla«8  of  personM  did  con^rcHS  make  provinion  ?  To  what  amount  ^ 
Arui.  Twenty  dollars  a  month  to  oHicerH,  and  twelve  to  privates. 

2.  What  cauHos  tended  tt)  produce  emigration  ? 

3.  When  was  Mi.s«i.s«ippi  admitted  into  the  Union? 

21* 


246  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1818. 

sovereign  state,  and  admitted  as  a  member  of  the  Union. 
It  was'tirst  settled  by  the  French,  at  Kaskaskia,  in  1686. 
It  remained  as  a  part  of  Indiana  till  1809,  when  a  separate 
territorial  government  was  established  over  it.  Since  it 
became  an  independent  state,  its  population  has  increased 
with  astonishing  rapidity. 

4.  The  year  1818  was  distinguished  for  the  famous 
Seminole  war.  The  Seminoles  were  a  tribe  of  Indians  in- 
habiting the  northern  part  of  Florida.  For  several  years, 
disatfected  Indians  from  neighboring  tribes,  negroes,  and 
other  desperate  charactei-s,  had  made  Florida  a  place  of  re- 
fuge. At  length,  great  outrages  were  committed  on  the 
frontiers  of  Georgia  and  Alabama.  The  savages,  influ- 
enced by  motives  of  revenge  and  plunder,  took  up  arms 
against  the  whites.  General  Gaines  was  tirst  sent  against 
them  ;  but  his  force  being  insufficient,  in  December,  General 
Jackson,  with  a  body  of  brave  volunteers  from  Tennessee, 
marched  into  their  territory,  and  in  several  skirmishes  de- 
feated and  dispersed  them. 

5.  Convinced  that  the  Spaniards  were  active  in  exciting 
the  Indians  to  hostilities,  and  in  furnishing  them  with  sup- 
plies, and  saiistied  that  the  only  successful  method  of  put- 
ting an  end  to  the  war,  would  be  to  enter  Florida,  he 
marched  thither,  and  took  possession  of  St.  Mark's,  and 
soon  after  of  Pensacola.  Two  Englishmen,  by  the  names 
of  Ambrister  and  Arbuthnot,  were  taken  prisoners,  tried 
before  a  court-martial  "  for  exciting  and  aiding  the  Indians 
to  make  war  against  the  United  States,"  &c.  Thev  were 
found  guilty  of  the  charges,  and  were  sentenced  and  ex- 
ecuted. Having  routed  the  Indians  in  several  battles,  and 
put  an  eflfectual  check  to  their  hostilities,  General  Jackson 
declared  the  war  at  an  end,  and  returned  to  his  residence  in 
Tennessee.* 

4.  Give  an  account  of  the  Seminole  war.  What  is  the  meaning  of  the 
■word  Seminole  ?  Ans.  Wild.  It  is  applied  by  the  Creek  Indians  to  all  vaga- 
bonds of  that  nation. 

5    What  persons  were  tried  and  executed  ? 

*  The  measures  of  General  Jackson  in  the  prosecution  of  the  Seminole  war,  were 
severely  censured  at  the  time,  by  a  portion  of  the  American  people.  During  the 
session  of  congress,  in  the  winter  of  1818-19,  the  subject  was  extensively  debated; 


1821.  Monroe's  administration.  247 

6.  A  treaty  of  commerce  was  concluded  with  the  British 
government  in  1819,  by  which  the  citizens  of  the  United 
States  were  allowed  to  fish  on  the  banks  of  Newfoundland 
in  common  with  the  subjects  of  Great  Britain.  By  the 
same  treaty,  the  northern  boundary  of  the  United  States, 
from  the  Lake  of  the  Woods  to  the  Rocky  Mountains,  was 
established.  During  the  same  3'ear,  Alabama  was  ad- 
mitted into  the  Union.  Formerly  Alabama  was  claimed 
by  Georgia.  In  1800,  the  country  between  the  Chatahoo- 
chee  and  Mississippi  rivers,  was  erected  into  the  Mississippi 
territorj'.  In  1817,  the  western  part  of  this  became  the 
state  of  Mississippi,  as  previously  mentioned,  and  the 
eastern  part,  the  territory  of  Alabama.  The  first  settle- 
ment was  made  in  1703,  at  Mobile.  Since  that  time  the 
population  has  increased  with  wonderful  rapidity;  and  from 
the  fertility  of  its  soil,  and  the  value  of  its  productions,  it 
has  become  an  important  member  of  the  Union. 

7.  In  1820,  Mahie,  which  had  hitherto  been  connected 
with  Massachusetts,  became  an  independent  state,  and 
joined  the  Union.  The  next  year,  Missouri  was  admitted. 
On  its  admission,  congress,  and  the  whole  country,  became 
highly  excited  on  the  question,  whether  she  should  be  ad- 
mitted as  a  slave  state.  After  a  warm  and  protracted 
debate,  it  was  finally  settled  that  slavery  should  be  allowed 
in  Missouri,  but  should  be  entirely  excluded  from  all  the  other 
territory  of  the  United  States,  north  and  west  of  Arkansas, 
or  nortlT  of  the  parallel  36°  30',  north  latitude. 

8.  In  1821,  Florida,*  which  had  been  hitherto  under  the 
dominion  of  Spain,  was  ceded  by  treaty  to  the  United 
States,  with  all  the  islands  adjacent,  in  compensation  for 

6.  What  treaty  was  concluded  in  1819  ?  What  boundary  was  established 
by  this  treaty  ?     When  was  Alabama  admitted  into  the  Union  ? 

7.  When  did  Maine  join  the  Union?  When  was  Missouri  admitted? 
What  question  produced  great  excitement  ?     How  was  it  finally  settled  ? 

8.  When  was  Florida  granted  to  the  United  States  ?     Why  ? 

but  his  conduct  met  the  approbation  of  the  president,  and  of  a  large  majority  of  the 
representatives  of  the  nation. 

'  For  a  long  time  after  the  discovery  of  Florida,  by  Ponce  de  Leon,  the  whole 
Atlantic  coast  of  North  America  was  known  in  Spanish  works  by  the  general 
name  of  Florida.  At  a  later  period,  it  extended  west  to  the  Mississippi,  and  was 
divided  into  East  and  West  Florida.  With  many  vicissitudes  of  fortune,  it  re- 
mained in  the  hands  of  the  Spaniards  till  1763,  when  it  was  ceded  to  the  British 


248  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1825. 

the  spoliations  committed  upon  our  commerce  by  Spanish 
vessels  during  the  wars  of  Europe.  To  satisfy  the  claims 
of  the  merchants  who  had  suffered  by  these  spoliations,  the 
general  government  appropriated  the  sum  of  five  million 
dollars.  Florida  had  long  been  the  hiding-place  of  hostile 
Indians,  pirates,  runaway  slaves,  and  other  desperadoes, 
who  lived  by  plunder  and  violence — in  a  word,  it  had  be- 
come the  theatre  of  every  species  of  lawless  adventure.  A 
\'igorous  government  was  now  established  over  the  territory, 
under  the  direction  of  General  Jackson. 

a.  In  1824,  General  Lafayette  arrived  at  New  York. 
T^is  event  produced  great  joy  throughout  the  nation.  This 
distinguished  personage  had  devoted  a  long  life  and  an  ample 
fortune  to  the  cause  of  liberty.  He  had  been  the  bosom 
friend  of  Washington,  and  a  most  faithful  soldier  in  the 
war  of  the  revolution  ;  and  now,  in  his  old  age,  he  had 
crossed  the  ocean,  to  visit  once  more  the  field  of  his  youth- 
ful toils  and  sufferings.  As  he  passed  through  the  several 
states,  he  was  every  where  received  with  the  warmest  en- 
thusiasm, and  with  the  highest  demonstrations  of  affection 
and  gratitude.  He  left  the  country  about  a  year  after  his 
arrival.  As  a  token  of  their  gratitude,  and  as  a  partial 
compensation  for  his  services  to  the  country,  congress  voted 
him  the  sum  of  two  hundred  thousand  dollars  in  money, 
and  a  township  of  land  in  the  territory  of  Florida. 

10.  Mr.  Monroe  continued  in  the  presidency  till  1825, 
when  four  candidates  for  that  office  were  brought  forward, 
and  a  warm  contest  ensued.  General  Jackson,  Mr.  Craw- 
ford, Mr.  Adams,*  and  Mr.  Clay,  each  had  their  supporters. 

9.  Wliat  took  place  in  1824?  What  can  you  say  of  Lafayette?  What 
•were  voted  him  by  congress  ? 

10.  Who  were  the  candidates  for  the  presidency  at  the  next  election? 
What  was  the  result  ? 


government.  In  1783,  it  was  ceded  back  by  Great  Britain  to  Spain.  On  the  22d  of 
February,  1819,  a  treaty  was  concluded  at  Washington,  by  which  East  and  West 
Florida  was  ceded  by  Spain  to  the  United  States.  This  treaty,  after  much  delay, 
xvas  ratified  by  Spain,  October,  1820  ;  by  the  United  States,  February,  1821  ;  and 
in  July  of  the  same  year,  possession  was  formally  given  to  GeneralJackson,  as 
commissioner  of  the  United  States  and  governor  of  the  whole  territory.  In  March, 
1822,  Florida  was  erected  into  a  territorial  government,  and  in  184o,  admitted  into 
the  Union  as  an  independent  state. 

*  John  Quincy  Adams  was  born  at  Quincy,  Massachusetts,  in  1767.    Ilis  life  was 
passed  almost  exclusively  in  the  public  service.    In  1825,  he  was  elected  president 


1826,  ADAMs'    ADMINISTRAITON.  249 

General  Jackson  had  the  highest  number  of  votes ;  but  as 
he  had  not  a  majority  of  the  whole,  the  choice  was  de- 
cided, according  to  the  constitution,  by  the  members  of  con- 
gress. As  Mr,  Clay  had  the  least  number  of  votes,  his 
friends  united  with  those  of  Mr.  Adams,  who  was  finally 
elected  president.  John  C.  Calhoun  was  elected  vice-presi- 
dent. 


J.  a.  ADAMS'  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  Mr.  Adams  took  the  oath  prescribed  by  the  consti- 
tution, and  entered  upon  the  duties  of  his  office  on  the  4th 
of  March,  1825.  Henry  Clay,  of  Kentucky,  was  appointed 
secretary  of  state ;  Richard  Rush,  of  Pennsylvania,  secre- 
tary of  the  treasury ;  and  James  Barbour,  of  Virginia, 
secretary  of  w^ar. 

2.  In  1825,  a  spirit  of  speculation  prevailed  extensively 
throughout  this  country,  and  also  in  Europe ;  during  which 
time,  cotton,  and  other  articles,  were  bought  and  sold  for 
more  than  twice  their  ordmary  value.  After  the  rage  sub- 
sided, thousands,  both  here  and  in  other  countries,  who  held 
stocks  at  the  advanced  prices,  were  thrown  into  embar- 
rassment and  ruin.  The  distress  in  England  was  so  great, 
as  very  sensibly  to  check  the  operations  of  business  in  the 
United  States. 

3.  The  4th  of  July,  1826,  was  joyfully  celebrated  through- 
out the  country,  as  the  fiftieth  anniversary  of  American 
Independence.  It  is  remarkable  that,  on  this  very  day, 
occurred  the  death  of  the  two  venerable  ex-presidents, 
Jkfferson  and  Adams,  whose  wise  counsels  had,  in  no 
small  degree,  contributed  to  the  independence  and  pros- 
perity of  their  country.     Few  events  of  great  national  in- 

1.  Who  were  appointed  secretaries  under  this  administration? 

2.  What  prevailed  in  1825  ? 

3.  What  was  celebrated  in  1826? 


of  the  United  States,  and  held  the  office  for  one  term  of  four  years.  He  still  con- 
tinupd  to  take  an  active  part  in  public  affairs,  and  was  soon  after  chosen  to  repre- 
sent his  native  district  in  congress.  He  was  continued  in  that  office  until  his  death 
in  the  capitol  at  Washington,  February  23d,  1848. 


260  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1832. 

terest  occurred  during  Mr.  Adams'  administration.  The 
spirit  of  internal  improvement  which  has  characterized  the 
nation  since  that  time,  began  to  be  manifested  in  different 
parts  of  the  country.  Peace  and  prosperity  every  where 
prevailed. 

4.  During  the  four  years  of  Mr.  Adams'  service,  a  warm 
contest  was  maintained  between  his  friends  and  those  of 
General  Jackson.  For  some  time,  both  parties  were  con- 
fident of  success.  But,  at  the  next  election,  the  result  of 
the  contest  proved  to  be  greatly  in  favor  of  General  Jackson, 
who  was  elected  president  by  a  large  majority.  John  C.  Cal- 
houn was  re-elected  vice-president. 


JACKSON'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  On  the  4th  of  March,  1829,  General  Jackson  took  the 
oath  of  office,  and  entered  upon  his  duties  as  president  of 
the  United  States.  At  this  time,  the  affairs  of  the  nation 
were  in  a  high  degree  prosperous.  At  peace  with  all  the 
world,  the  country  was  enjoying  every  facility  for  advanc- 
ing to  affluence  and  power.  Business  of  all  kinds  was 
vigorously  and  profitably  carried  on,  and  thousands  were 
gathering  a  rich  harvest  of  wealth. 

2.  During  the  session  of  1831-32,  a  bill  was  brought 
forward  in  congress  for  re-chartering  the  United  States 
Bank.  Great  interest  was  manifested  in  all  parts  of  the 
country,  on  the  subject  of  this  bill.  After  a  very  warm  and 
protracted  debate  in  both  houses  of  congress,  it  was  passed 
by  a  small  majority,  but  was  vetoed  by  the  president ;  and, 
as  there  were  not  two-thirds  of  congress  in  favor  of  its  pas- 
sage, the  bill  was  lost. 

4.  Between  whom  was  a  contest  maintained  during  this  administration? 
How  did  it  result  ?  Ans.  In  the  electoral  colleges,  General  Jackson  had  178 
votes,  and  Mr.  Adams  83. 

1.  What  took  place  on  the  4th  of  March,  1829?  What  is  said  of  the 
.  affairs  of  the  nation  at  that  time  ? 

2.  When  was  the  bill  for  re-chartering  the  United  States  Bank  brought  for- 
ward? What  was  the  result  ?  When  did  the  old  charter  expire  ?  J.rts.  In 
1836.  What  is  meant  by  vctoins;  a  bill  ?  Can  a  bill  be  passed  into  a  law  after 
it  has  been  vetoed  by  the  president  ? 


1832.  Jackson's  administration.  251 

3.  In  the  spring  of  1832,  the  Winnebagoes,  and  other 
Indian  tribes  on  our  northwestern  frontier,  commenced  a 
war  upon  the  neighboring  inhabitants.  General  Scott,  with 
a  strong  force,  proceeded  against  them,  and  on  the  27th 
of  August  captured  the  famous  Indian  chief,  Black  Hawk^ 
and  soon  put  an  end  to  the  war.  Black  Hawk,  and 
several  other  Indians,  were  conducted  to  Washington,  and 
through  the  country,  for  the  purpose  of  giving  them  some 
idea  of  the  extent  and  power  of  the  United  States,  and  to 
show  them  the  folly  of  making  war  against  the  whites. 
After  this,  they  were  permitted  to  return  to  their  tribes. 

4.  In  1832,  congress  passed  a  new  tariff  \i^S\.  The  country 
had  been  agitated  for  several  years  with  the  subject  of  the 
tariff  laws  ;  and,  at  length,  the  excitement  became  so  great 
at  the  south,  that  an  "  ordinance"  was  published  by  a  con- 
vention in  South  Carolina,  nullifying^  or  forbidding  the 
operation  of  the  tariff  laws  of  the  general  government  in 
that  state.  This  act  called  forth  a  proclamation  from  Pre- 
sident Jackson,  in  which  he  clearly  showed  the  supremacy 
of  the  laws  of  congress,  and  expressed  his  determination  to 
enforce  them.  The  sentiments  of  the  proclamation  met 
with  a  cordial  response  from  every  friend  of  the  Union,  and 
all  united  in  support  of  the  president.  The  laws  regulating 
the  tariff  were  soon  after  modified,  and  South  Carolina 
made  no  further  opposition. 

5.  In  June  of  the  same  year,  the  Cholera  broke  out  in 
New  York.  This  scourge  of  Asia  and  Europe,  which  had 
swept  away  fifty  millions  of  the  human  race  in  the  course 


3.  Who  commenced  a  war  upon  our  northwestern  frontiers  ?  Who  pro- 
ceeded against  them  ?  Whom  did  he  capture  ?  Where  were  Black  Hawk 
and  other  Indians  conducted  ?     For  what  purpose  ? 

4.  What  bill  was  passed  in  18.32?  What  is  meant  by  tariff  laws  ?  Ans. 
The  laws  which  regulate  the  duties  on  foreign  manufactures.  As  the  price 
of  labor  in  Europe  is  much  less  than  it  is  in  America,  cloth,  and  other  articles, 
can  be  made  there  and  sold  in  this  countiy  much  cheaper  than  we  can  afford 
to  make  them.  If  a  yard  of  cloth,  made  in  England,  can  be  afforded  for  three 
dollars  without  duty,  when  a  yard  of  the  same  quality  can  not  be  made  here 
for  less  than  five  dollars,  the  tariff  law  imposes  a  duty  or  tax  upon  every  yard 
of  such  cloth  imported.  The  object  of  this  is  to  enable  our  manufacturers  to 
compete  with  those  of  other  countries,  by  making  the  price  of  foreign  manu- 
factures higher  than  that  of  domestic,  or  those  made   in  the  United  States  ? 

5.  What  is  said  of  the  cholera  ?    How  many  died  in  New  York  ? 


262  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1835. 

of  a  few  years,  first  appeared,  on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic, 
in  Canada.  It  was  imported  from  some  of  the  cities  in 
Europe,  where  it  was  then  raging.  A  universal  panic  pre- 
vailed on  its  first  appearance  ;  and  the  inhabitants  of  our 
large  cities  were  seen  fleeing  into  the  country  in  all  direc- 
tions, to  avoid  this  "  fell  destroj^er."  In  New  York,  three 
thousand  people  died  of  this  horrible  disease  in  the  course 
of  a  few  weeks.  The  malady  spread  in  all  directions, 
but  proved  most  destructive  in  the  southern  and  western 
states. 

6.  The  candidates  for  the  presidency,  supported  at  the 
next  election,  were  General  Jackson,  Henrys  Clay,  and  Wm. 
Wirt.  Jackson  was  re-elected  by  an  increased  majority, 
and  entered  upon  his  second  term  of  service  on  the  4th  of 
March,  1833.  Martin  Van  Buren  was  elected  vice-presi- 
dent. On  the  6th  of  June,  1833,  the  president  started  from 
Washington,  accompanied  by  most  of  his  cnbinet,  to  visit 
the  northern  and  eastern  portion  of  the  Union.  He  pro- 
ceeded as  far  as  Concord,  New  Hampshire.  Throughout 
the  whole  route,  at  every  town,  village,  and  city,  he  was 
welcomed  with  livel}-  demonstrations  of  respect,  by  citizens 
of  all  parties,  who  seemed  to  vie  with  each  other  in  render- 
ing honor  to  the  chief  magistrate  of  a  free  and  enlightened 
people.  Much  excitement  was  created  in  the  auttunn  of 
this  3'ear,  by  ;he  removnl  of  '•  -he  deposites."  or  governmeiit 
funds,  from  the  Bank  of  the  Uniied  States  o  the  state 
banks.  I'his  measure  was  severely  censured  at  the  time, 
by  !he  opponents  of  the  adminisra'.ion :  and  the  nexi  ses- 
sion of  congress  was  chiefly  occupied  with  discussions  con- 
nected with  the  "  Bank  question."  The  president  was  sus- 
tained in  his  course  by  the  house  of  representatives,  and 
subsequently  by  a  large  majority  of  the  American  people. 

7.  In  1835,  serious  apprehensions  were  felt  throughout 
the  country,  of  a  war  between  the  United  States  and  France. 
For  many  years  our  government  had  urged  its  claims  upon 
France  for  spoilations  upon  American  commerce  committed 

6.  Who  were  candidates  for  the  presidency  at  the  next  election  ?  General 
Jackson  had  219  votes;  Henry  Clav,  49;  John  Floyd,  11;  and  William 
Wirt,  11. 

7.  What  claims  had  our  government  upon  France  at  this  time? 


1835. 


JACKSON  S    ADMINISTRATION. 


253 


by  that  naiion  during  the  wars  of  Napoleon.  These  claims, 
to  the  amount  of  25,000,000  francs,  had  been  acknowledged 
by  the  French  government,  and  stipulations  made  for  a  set- 
tlement. But  for  various  reasons  the  payment  was  put  off 
from  time  to  time,  till  the  president,  considering  the  honor 
of  the  nation  at  stake,  proposed  certain  measures,  which,  it 
was  feared,  would  involve  the  two  nations  in  war.  But  for- 
tunately the  amount  was  paid  in  1836,  and  all  differences 
amicably  settled. 

8.  The  most  destructive  fire  ever  known  in  the  United 
States,  occurred  in  New  York,  on  the  16th  of  December, 
1835.  In  the  evening,  about  nine  o'clock,  the  fire  broke  out 
in  the  richest  part  of  the  city,  and  extended  in  all  directions 


GREAT      K  I  R  E      IN      N  K  \V      Y  C)  R  K  . 


till  it  had  reduced  to  ashes  several  hundred  of  the  finest 
stores  in  the  world.  The  night  was  exceedingly  cold,  and 
the  wind  high.  The  flames  towering  up  in  lofty  pyramids 
from  the  wide-spread  conflagration,  rendered  the  scene 
awfully   subhme.       The   number    of   buildings   destroyed, 


8.  What  occurred  in  New  York 
How  much  propert-y  destroyed  ? 


in  1835'     How  many  buildings  burned? 
22 


254 


HISTORY    OF    THE    VMTKD    iSlATES. 


I80O. 


besides  the  Merchants'  Exchangee,  was  over  500,  and  the 
loss  of  property  in  buildings  and  goods  was  estimated  at 
more  than  serentceu  7niI/iofis  of  dollai^s. 

9.  During  the  winter  of  1835,  the  Seminole  Indians  of 
Florida,  who  had  agreed  by  treaty  to  remove  west  of  the 
Mississippi,*  to  a  territory  set  apart  for  them  by  our  govern- 
ment, called  the  Indian  Territory,  became  dissatislied,  and 
refused  to  leave.  Influenced  by  motives  of  revenge,  and 
love  of  country,  they  opened  a  most  cruel  and  desperate 


K      M   A  J  O  R      P   V  1)  K 


warfare  upon  the  whites.   Troops  were  immediately  marched 
into  Florida,  but  found  the  utmost  difficulty  and  danger  in 


9.  What  war  broke  out  in  1835  ? 
company  ? 


What  was  the  fate  of  Major  Dade  and  hi 


*  In  1833,  the  government  of  the  United  States  set  aoart  an  extensive  region  west 
of  Arkansas  and  Missouri,  for  the  residence  of  those  luiiians  who  should  eniicn-ate 
fi-om  the  states  east  of  the  Mississippi.  It  was  beheved  that  this  would  conduce  to 
their  welfare  and  preservation,  as  tney  would  be  beyond  and  removed  h'om  the  set- 
tlement of  the  whites,  and  separated  from  all  state  authority.  It  is  called  the 
"  Indian  Territory,"  and  is  noted  for  its  mild  climate,  numerous  rivers,  extensive 
forests,  and  abundance  of  same-  Since  that  time,  the  Cherokees.  Chickasaws, 
Choctaws,  Creeks,  Seminoles,  Senecas.  Shawnees.  and  many  others  have  removed 
thither,  and  under  the  instruction  of  missionaries  have  made  considerable  advances 
toward  civiUzatioa.— See  map  of  the  United  States. 


1835.  '  Jackson's  administration.  255 

penetrating  the  swamps  and  forests  in  which  the  savages 
had  taken  refuge.  On  the  morning  of  the  28th  of  Decem- 
ber, as  Major  Dade  with  a  brave  band  of  soldiers  was 
marching  through  a  wood  thick-set  with  long  grass  and 
underbush,  to  the  relief  of  General  Clinch,  who  was  besieged 
by  the  savages  in  Fort  Drane,  his  whole  company,  consist- 
ing of  110  men,  was  suddenly  surprised  with  a  deadly  fire 
from  the  surrounding  thicket,  and  all  killed,  excepting  four, 
who  escaped. 

10.  On  the  29th  of  February,  1836,  General  Gaines  with 
a  force  of  about  1,200  men,  fell  in  with  the  main  body  of  the 
Seminoles,  about  1,500  in  number.  An  assault  was  made 
by  the  Indians,  but  nothing  decisive  resulted.  General 
Gaines  intrenched  his  army,  and  was  immediately  besieged 
by  the  enemy.  In  this  situation  his  men  were  reduced  to  a 
state  of  starvation,  and  would  probably  have  perished,  had 
not  General  Clinch  arrived  soon  after  with  reinforcements. 
The  Creeks,  a  neighboring  tribe,  early  in  the  season  joined 
with  the  Seminoles,  and  began  their  hostilities  by  butchering 
fifty  families.  Murders  and  devastations  were  frequent. 
But  by  vigorous  exertions  on  the  part  of  our  government, 
they  were  finally  subdued,  and  the  principal  part  removed 
to  the  Indian  Territory,  west  of  the  Mississippi.  On  the 
Uth  of  July,  1836,  "The  Specie  Circular"  was  issued  by 
the  treasury  department,  requiring  the  payment  of  gold  and 
silver  for  public  lands. 

11.  During  the  year  1835,  the  national  debt  was  extin- 
guished ;  and,  from  the  rapid  sale  of  public  lands,  and  from 
the  flourishing  state  of  the  nation,  a  balance  of  several 
millions  of  surplus  revenue  was,  at  the  beginning  of  1836, 
remaining  in  the  treasury.  Soon  after,  "  The  Distribution 
Act"  was  passed,  providing  that  the  money  remaining  in  the 
treasury  on  the  Ist  of  January,  1837,  should  be  distributed 
among  the  several  states  in  proportion  to  the  population  of 

10.  When  did  General  Gaines  meet  the  enemy?  Who  came  to  his  relief? 
What  was  the  result  of  the  war  ?  The  entire  removal  of  the  Indians  was  not 
effected  until  1840.  What  was  issued  July  Uth  ?  The  object  of  the  Specie 
Circular  was  to  prevent  speculation  in  the  public  lands. 

11.  When  was  the  national  debt  extinguished,  or  paid  off?  What  was 
done  with  the  surplus  revenue  ?     How  much  was  distributed  ?     How  much 


256 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


183: 


each.*  During  the  session,  Arkansas  and  Michigan  were 
admitted  into  the  Union  as  independent  states,  and  Wiscon- 
sin was  erected  into  a  territorial  government.  At  the  elec- 
tion in  1836,  Martin  Van  Buren  was  chosen  president,  and 
Richard  M.  Johnson,  vice-president.  After  witnessing  the 
inaugm-ation  of  his  successor,  on  the  4th  of  March,  1837, 
General  Jackson  retired  to  his  private  residence  at  the  Her- 
mitage, in  Tennessee. 


MARTIN  VAN  BUREN'S  ADMINISTRATION. 


1.  Mr.  Van  Buren  was  inaugurated  and  entered  on  the 
duties  of  his  office,  March  4th,  1837.     As  was  anticipated, 


did  this  state  receive  ?  Did  this  state  divide  the  money  it  received  among  the 
several  towns  ?  If  so,  what  is  it  called  ?  Ans.  The  Town  Deposit  Fund. 
What  states  were  admitted  into  the  Union  '  What  territory  erected  I  When 
did  General  Jackson's  term  of  othce  expire  ?  What  was  the  result  of  the 
presidential  election  in  1836  ?  Ans.  Martin  Van  Buron  had  170  votes  ; 
William  Henry  Harrison,  73  ;  Hugh  L.  White,  26 ;  Daniel  Webster,  14 ; 
"William  P.  Magnum,  11.  Why  did  the  opposition  support  so  many  candi- 
dates ?  Alls.  To  prevent  a  choice  by  the  people,  and  thus  throw  the  election 
into  the  House  of  Representatives. 

1.  W^hen  was  Mr.  Van  Buren  inaugurated  ' 


"  Apportionment  of  the  Surplus  Revenue  of  the  United  States,  remaining  in  the 
Treasury,  January  1st,  1837,  (reserving  S5,(X)0,000,  to  meet  the  expenses  of  the 
government,)  among  the  several  States,  agreeably  to  the  number  of  electoral  votes 
for  Pre.<;ident,  according  to  the  Act  of  Congress,  of  June  23d,  1836  :— the  deposits  to 
be  made  in  four  equal  pai'ts,  on  the  1st  of  January,  1st  of  April,  1st  of  July,  and  1st 
of  October,  1837. 


Electoral 

Amount  to  be 

Electoral 

Amount  to  b« 

Votes. 

depositeJ. 

Votes. 

deposited. 

Maine. 

10 

«1,274,451.02 

Georgia,     .       . 

11 

$1,401,896.12 

\e\v  Hampshire, 

7 

8M.  115.71 

Alabama,   . 

7 

89-.M  15.71 

Massachusetts,    . 

4 

1,784,331.4;^ 

Mississippi, 

4 

5(H),780.41 

UhcKle  Island,     . 

14 

5in),780.4I 

Louisiana, 

5 

tkl7,>J25.51 

Vermont,    . 

7 

w>.Mi.'>.:i 

Missouri,     . 

4 

.509,780.43 

Connecticut, 

8 

1.109,:.(iU.8I 

Kentucky,  . 

15 

1,911,676.53 

New  York, 

42 

5,3o->.l)W.-,V8 

Tennessee, 

15 

1.911,676.53 

Xew  Jersey, 

8 

l,01l».5tW).81 

Ohio,          .       . 

iil 

2.676.347.14 

Pennsylvania,     . 

30 

3,8^23,3,'i3.lH5 

Indiana, 

9 

1,147.005.92 

Oelaware,  . 

3 

38'2,:«5.31 

Illinois, 

5 

637.225.51 

Maryland,  . 

10 

1, '274,45  l.lhl 

Arkansas,   . 

3 

382.335.31 

Virginia,     . 
North  Carolina, 
South  Carolina, 

23 
15 
11 

2,«»31,-J37.34 
1.911,G7G53 
l,401,S96.1-2 

Michigan,  . 

3 

382,335.31 

Total, 

21W 

§37,468,859.97 

1837.  VAN  buren's  administration.  257 

no  change  was  made  in  the  general  pohey  of  the  govern- 
ment ;  and  it  was  soon  evident  that  the  measures  of  the  new 
president  would  be  but  a  continuation  of  those  of  his  prede- 
cessor. 

2.  Hardly  had  the  new  administration  come  into  power, 
before  the  "  great  money  pressure"  commenced,  producing  a 
state  of  embarrassment  and  distress  unparalleled  in  the 
history  of  our  country.  This  was  caused  by  overaction  in 
business,  speculation,  and  extravagance.  For  several  years, 
the  facilities  for  borrowing  on  credit  had  greatly  increased  ; 
especially  after  the  removal  of  the  "  Deposites"  from  the  Bank 
of  the  United  States  to  the  state  banks,  in  1833.  Abandon- 
ing the  old  roads  of  honest  industry,  multitudes  sought  to 
make  their  fortunes  in  an  hour  by  speculation.  Cities  were 
planned  in  the  wilderness, — villages  laid  out  in  marshes. — 
building  lots  were  sold  at  enormous  prices, — and  the  wildest 
schemes  devised  for  the  acquisition  of  wealth.  But  this 
unnatural  state  of  things  could  not  continue  ;  it  reached  its 
crisis  in  April,  1837. 

3.  Thousands,  having  contracted  large  debts,  which  they 
were  unable  to  pay,  were  obliged  to  fail ;  and  suspensions 
and  failures  in  business  became  of  daily,  almost  of  hourly 
occurrence.  In  a  short  time,  the  failures  in  New  York 
alone,  amounted  to  more  than  one  hundred  million  of  dollars. 
At  length,  all  confidence  was  lost.  No  one  dared  trust  his 
neighbor,  and  a  general  panic  pervaded  the  whole  commu- 
nity. On  the  1 0th  of  May,  every  bank  in  New  York  sus- 
pended specie  payments,  and  this  was  soon  followed  by  a 
similar  suspension  on  the  part  of  the  banks  throughout  the 
whole  country. 

4.  As  the  public  moneys  were  deposited  in  banks  that 
refused  to  redeem  their  bills  in  specie,  the  government  itself 
was  embarrassed  and  unable  to  discharge  its  own  obliga- 

2.  What  happened  at  the  very  commencement  of  his  administration  ?  What 
cau.sed  the  "  great  money  pressure"  ?  What  did  multitudes  seek  to  do  ? 
How  should  men  seek  to  make  their  fortunes  ? 

3.  What  did  the  failures  in  New  York  amount  to  ?  When  did  the  banks 
suspend  specie  payments,  or  refuse  to  redeem  their  bills  in  specie  ? 

4.  As  the  public  moneys,  or  funds  of  the  general  government,  were  deposited 
in  banks,  what  was  the  consequence  ?     What  bill  did  Mr.  Van  Buren  wish  to 

22* 


258  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1837. 

tions.  An  extra  session  of  congress  was  convened  on  the 
4th  of  September,  and  several  bills  passed  for  the  relief  of 
the  government.  The  most  important  was  one  for  the  issue 
of  treasury  notes,  to  the  amount  of  ten  millions  of  dollars. 
The  prominent  measure  of  the  session,  was  "  The  Sub-Trea- 
sury," or  "  Independent  Treasury  Bill."  The  object  of  this 
bill  was  to  provide  for  the  collection,  safe  keeping,  transfer, 
and  disbursement  of  the  public  funds,  without  any  connec- 
tion with,  or  dependence  on  banks.  This  passed  the  senate  ; 
but  after  a  long  and  animated  discussion  in  the  house  of 
representatives,  it  was  laid  on  the  table.  On  the  16th  of 
October,  the  session  closed  without  caiTying  out  either  the 
wishes  of  the  government  or  people. 

5.  The  war  with  the  Seminole  Indians  in  Florida,  still 
continued.  After  several  encounters,  a  number  of  chiefs 
came,  on  the  6th  of  March,  to  the  camp  of  General  Jessup, 
and  signed  a  treaty  for  the  immediate  cessation  of  hostilities, 
and  for  the  removal  of  all  the  Seminoles  to  the  "  Indian  Ter- 
ritory." The  war  was  now  supposed  to  be  at  an  end,  but 
by  the  influence  of  Osceola,  a  noted  chief,  this  treaty  was 
disregarded,  and  the  Indians  again  commenced  their  work 
of  slaughter  and  devastation.  In  October,  Osceola  and  seve- 
ral other  chiefs,  with  about  seventy  warriors,  came  to  the 
American  camp,  under  a  flag  of  truce,  and  w^ere  taken 
prisoners  by  order  of  General  Jessup.  This  act  was  con- 
demned by  some,  but  justified  by  most,  from  the  fact  that 
Osceola  was  treacherous,  and  that  no  treaties  could  bind 
him.  The  war  was  finally  brought  to  a  close  in  1840,  when 
the  Indians  were  removed  west  of  the  Mississippi. 

6.  During  the  year,  serious  disturbances  took  place  in 
Canada,  between  the  inhabitants  and  colonial  government. 


have  pgussed  ?  What  was  the  object  of  "  The  Sub-Treasury  Bill"  ?  Did  con- 
gress pass  the  bill  ?  When  did  the  extra  session  commence  ?  When  did  it 
close  ? 

5.  What  war  still  continued  ?  When  and  by  whom  was  a  treaty  signed  ? 
By  whose  influence  was  the  treaty  broken  ?  Did  Gen.  Jessup  do  right  in  tak- 
ing Osceola  prisoner  ?  Osceola  was  subsequently  confined  in  Fort  Moultrie, 
in  South  Carolina,  where  he  died  of  a  fever  the  next  January.  When  was  the 
Seminole  war  terminated  ? 

6.  What  happened  in  Canada  in  1837  ?     To  what  government  does  Canada 


1838.  VAN  buren's  administration.  269 

Many  of  our  citizens  on  the  frontier,  regarding"  their  cause 
as  that  of  hberty  and  human  rights,  and  having  taken  part 
in  it,  the  president,  on  the  5th  of  January,  issued  a  procla- 
mation, forbidding  an  interference  in  the  war,  and  enjoining 
a  strict  neutrahty.  About  that  time,  an  incident  occurred 
that  excited  a  deep  interest  throughout  the  United  States. 
A  party  of  about  500  Canadians  arid  Americans,  had  made 
a  rendezvous  on  May  Island,  in  Niagara  river,  opposite  to 
which,  on  the  American  side,  was  a  small  village  called 
Fort  Schlosser.  The  Carohne,  a  small  steamboat,  was  used 
to  ply  between  the  island  and  village.  Colonel  McNab,  the 
commander  of  the  Canadian  militia,  suspecting  the  boat 
was  used  for  carrying  supplies  to  the  patriots  on  the  island, 
resolved  to  destroy  her.  For  this  purpose,  with  150  men, 
he  crossed  over  one  night  from  the  Canada  side,  to  Schlos- 
ser, seized  the  boat,  drove  the  crew  ashore,  set  her  on  fire, 
and  let  her  drift  over  the  Falls  of  Niagara.  During  the 
affair,  an  American  by  the  name  of  Durfee  was  killed. 
Difficulties  continued,  and  parties  secretly  crossed  the  hues 
until  near  the  end  of  the  year,  when  the  president  issued  a 
new  proclamation,  calling  on  our  citizens  in  Canada  to 
abandon  their  designs,  declaring  the  protection  of  our  country 
forfeited  by  those  who  invaded  the  British  possessions  with 
hostile  intentions.     This  had  the  desired  effect. 

7.  On  the  13th  of  August,  1838,  the  banks,  by  previous 
concert,  throughout  the  United  States,  generally  resumed 
specie  payments.  This  event  was  welcomed  by  the  whole 
country.  Credit  soon  began  to  revive, — confidence  was 
restored, — and  business  again  resumed  its  former  channels. 
On  the  18th  of  August,  "The  Exploring  Expedition,"  under 
Charles  Wilkes,  Esq.,  consisting  of  the  Vincennes,  a  sloop 
of  war  of  20  guns,  the  Peacock,  of  18  guns,  the  Porpoise, 
of  10  guns,  and  three  smaller  vessels,  having  on  board  a 
number  of  distinguished  and  learned  men  in  the  various  de- 
partments of  natural  science,  sailed  from  Hampton  Roads 

belong?  Ans.  To  the  British  government.  Did  our  citizens  take  any  part  in 
the  Canadian  rebellion  ?     What  took  place  at  Fort  Schlosser  ? 

7.  What  event,  important  to  the  business  of  the  country,  took  place  August 
]3th,  1838?     What  was  the  effect  of  the  resumption  of  specie  payments? 


260  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1840. 

for  the  southern  ocean.  After  an  absence  of  nearly  four 
years,  it  returned  in  June.  1S4'2,  having  cu-cumnavigated  the 
globe,  discovered  the  coasts  of  an  Antarctic  conluient,  and 
visited  many  other  parts,  before  nearly  unknown.  It  brought 
home  a  valuable  collection  of  plants,  and  full}-  accomplished 
the  object  for  which  it  was  designed. 

8.  A  disagreement  had  long  existed  between  the  United 
States  and  Great  Britain  in  regard  to  the  boundaiy  between 
Maine  and  New  Brunswick.  In  several  instances  the  border 
settlements  were  claimed  by  both  nations,  and  frequently 
serious  tumults  ensued.  In  1840,  congress  appropriated 
$■25,000  toward  the  expenses  of  surveying  the  disputed 
territory,  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  correct  information  in 
regard  to  its  topographical  features  and  physical  character. 
Happih',  in  184'2,  the  ditficulty  was  terminated  b^^  a  treat}', 
by  which  the  boundary  question  was  settled,  in  a  manner 
satisfactorv  to  both  governments. 

9.  During  the  session  of  1840,  the  Sub-Treasury  Bill,  the 
great  linancial  measure  of  Mr.  Van  Buren's  administration, 
passed  both  houses  of  congress,  and  became  a  law.  The 
presidential  election  of  that  year  was  the  most  exciting  and 
arduous  that  had  ever  occurred  in  the  United  States.  It 
resulted  in  the  election  of  General  William  Henry  Hamson, 
of  Ohio,  for  president,  and  John  Tyler,  of  Virginia,  for  vice- 
presielent,  by  a  large  majority.  On  the  3d  of  March,  1841, 
Mr.  Van  Buren's*  administration  terminated,  and  he  soon 
after  retu-ed  to  his  private  residence  at  Kinderhook,  New 
York. 


What  important  expedition  was  fitted  out  ?    When  did  it  sail  ?    When  did  it 
return  ? 

8.  What  disagreement  existed  between  the  United  States  and  Great 
Britain  ?     When  was  "The  northeast  boundary  question"  settled  ! 

9.  When  was  the  *'  Sub-Treasury  Bill"  passed  !  Is  that  bill  in  ibrce  now  ? 
What  was  the  result  of  the  presidential  election  ?  Ans.  For  president.  Gen. 
Harrison  had  234  votes,  luid  Mr.  Van  Buren,  60.  When  did  Mr.  Van  Buren's 
administration  close  ? 

*  Martin  Van  Buren  was  born  at  Khiderhook,  New  York,  December  5th,  1782. 
His  parents  were  of  Dutch  i+esoent,  and  in  humble  circumstances.  He  received  his 
education  at  the  academy  in  his  native  village,  and  at  the  aire  of  fourteen,  commenced 
the  study  of  law.  In  1S05,  he  commenced  the  practice  of  law  in  his  native  village,  and 
by  Uie  a'cuteness  of  his  mind,  soon  enjoyed  the  reputation  of  being  one  of  the  first 


1841.  Harrison's  administration.  261 


HARRISON'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  General  Harrison*  was  inaugurated  president  of  the 
United  States,  on  the  4th  of  March,  1841.  The  ceremony 
took  place  in  the  presence  of  a  large  assemblage  of  people, 
gathered  from  all  quarters  of  the  country.  His  inaugural 
address  was  a  plain,  clear,  and  comprehensive  document, 
highly  acceptable  to  the  party  which  had  elected  him. 

2.  In  consequence  of  the  financial  condition  of  the  country, 
on  the  17th  of  March,  the  president  issued  a  proclamation, 
calling  an  extra  session  of  congress  on  the  31st  of  May  fol- 
lowing. Great  and  radical  changes  were  now  confidently 
expected  in  the  measures  of  the  administration.  But  Gen. 
Harrison  was  never  destined  to  have  an  opportunity  of  real- 
izing his  sj'stem  of  policy.  On  the  4th  of  April,  just  one 
month  after  his  inauguration,  he  expired,  surrounded  by  his 
cabinet  and  nearest  friends.  His  last  words  were,  "  Sir,  I 
wish  you  to  understand  the  principles  of  the  government. 
I  wish  them  carried  out, — I  ask  nothing  more."  His  death, 
so  sudden,  so  unexpected,  produced  the  deepest  sensation 
throughout  the  country.  Party  feeling  was  laid  aside,  and 
all  classes  united  in  paying  honors  to  the  remains  of  one, 
elevated  to  the  first  office  in  the  gift  of  a  free  and  enlight- 
ened people.  By  a  provision  of  the  constitution,  Mr.  Tyler 
now  became  president  of  the  United  States. 


1.  When  was  Gen.  Harrison  inaugurated  ? 

2.  When  did  he  call  an  extra  session  of  congress  ?    When  did  he  die  ? 
Who  became  president  in  consequence  of  his  death  ? 


lawyers  in  the  state.  In  1812,  he  wa."?  elected  state  senator,  and  in  1815,  apjjointed 
attorney-(fen(;ral  of  tlie  state.  In  1K21,  he  was  elected  to  the  senate  of  Die  United 
States,  where  he  distinguished  himself  as  an  eloquent  speaker  and  skillful  states- 
man. In  18aS,  he  was  chosen  governor  of  New  York.  In  1829,  he  re.^igned  this 
office,  to  fill  the  post  of  secretary  of  state  in  Gen.  .Jackson's  cabinet.  In  Is'Jl,  he  was 
sent  as  minister  to  England.     In  18.33,  he  was  elected  vice-president,  and  in  1837, 

tinsident  of  the  United  .States.  He  discharged  the  duties  of  every  office  which  he 
leld  with  ability,  and  his  success  and  elevation  are  to  be  ascribed  to  his  own  talents, 
industry,  and  perseverance. 

'  William  Henry  Harrison  was  born  at  Berkley.  Virginia,  in  1773.  In  1801,  he 
was  ap|)oinfed  governor  of  Indiana  Territory.  In  1824,  he  was  elected  to  the  senate 
of  the  United  States.  In  1828,  he  was  appointed  mini.ster  to  Colombia.  On  his  re- 
turn, he  retired  to  North  Bend  on  the  Ohio,  where  he  remained,  engaged  in  agri- 
cultural pursuits,  until  his  election  lu  the  presidency  in  1840. 


262  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1841, 


TYLER'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  Mr.  Tyler*  took  the  usual  oath  and  entered  on  the 
duties  of  his  otfice,  as  president  of  the  United  States,  April 
5th,  1841.  The  cabhiet  was  retained,  and  it  was  generally 
supposed  he  would  carry  out  the  measures  recommended  by 
his  predecessor. 

2.  On  the  31st  of  May,  the  extra  session  of  congress, 
called  by  General  Harrison,  commenced,  and  continued  to 
the  13th  of  September.  Several  important  measures  of 
exciting  interest  were  brought  forward.  The  sub-treasury 
bill  was  repealed,  and  after  a  lengthy  discussion,  a  general 
Bankmpt  Law  was  passed.  Two  separate  bills,  chartering 
a  new  bank  of  the  United  States,  passed  both  houses  of 
congress  ;  but  both  were  vetoed  by  the  president.  As  this 
was  one  of  the  favorite  measures  of  the  whig  party,  the 
conduct  of  the  executive  caused  him  to  be  denounced  by 
them,  in  no  measured  terms. 

3.  In  1842,  domestic  difficulties  commenced  in  Rhode 
Island,  which  at  one  time  threatened  serious  consequences. 
For  a  long  time  a  desire  had  existed  to  set  aside  the  ancient 
English  Charter  of  the  state,  and  adopt  a  new  constitution. 
Two  parties  were  formed  with  reference  to  the  proper  mode 
of  accomplishing  this  object.  The  "  Suffrage  Part}',"  be- 
lieving that  the  people  possess  all  political  power,  and  have 
a  right  in  their  sovereign  capacity,  to  alter,  modify,  and 
establish  their  fundamental  laws,  formed  and  adopted  a  con- 

1.  When  was  Mr.  Tyler  inaugurated  ? 

2.  When  did  the  extra  congress  commence  ?  When  did  it  close  ?  WTiat 
was  done  at  that  session  of  congress '(  What  bills  did  the  president  veto  ? 
Were  the  whig  party  pleased  with  his  conduct  ? 

3.  What  took  place  in  Rhode  Island  in  1842  ?  Into  what  two  parties  were 
the  people  divided  ?     Which  party  was  right  ? 


*  John  Tyler  was  born  in  Charles  City,  Virginia,  in  1789.  He  graduated  at  Wil- 
liam and  Mary's  college,  and  subsequently  pursued  the  study  of  law.  At  the  age 
of  twenty-one,"  he  was  chosen  member  of  tlie  state  legislature.  He  was  a  represen- 
tative iu'congress  from  1810  to  ISil,  and  distinguished  himself  as  a  bold  and  iluent 
debater.  In  1825,  he  was  elected  governor  of  Virginia,  and  in  1827,  to  the  senate  of 
the  United  States.  In  li^O,  he  was  chosen  vice-president,  and  on  the  5th  of  April, 
1841,  became  president  of  the  United  States. 


1844.  Tyler's  administration.  263 

stiti.ition,  and  chose  Thomas  W.  Dorr,  governor.  The  "  Law 
and  Order  Party,"  on  the  other  hand,  contended  that, 
although  the  people  constitute  the  sovereign  authority,  yet 
they  had  no  right  to  set  aside  the  ancient  charter  of  the 
state,  and  adopt  a  new  constitution,  except  in  accordance 
with  legal  forms  and  by  the  constituted  authorities.  This 
party  chose  Samuel  W.  King,  governor.  Each  party  also 
elected  a  legislature.  In  May,  both  parties  met  at  Provi- 
dence, and  organized  their  respective  governments. 

4.  Matters  now  came  to  a  crisis.  The  "  Law  and  Order 
Party,"  or  existmg  government,  took  active  measures  to  put 
down  what  they  considered  a  rebellion.  Several  arrests 
were  made,  and  great  commotion  ensued.  A  resort  was  had 
to  arms ;  but  Mr.  Dorr,  seeing  the  hopelessness  of  his  enter- 
prise, left  the  state,  and  his  men  speedily  dispersed.  On  his 
return,  he  was  arrested,  tried,  and  imprisoned,  but  afterward 
released.  In  the  mean  time,  a  constitution  for  the  state  was 
prepared  by  the  "  Law  and  Order  Party,"  and  adopted. 

5.  On  the  28th  of  February,  1844,  a  tragical  event  occur- 
red on  board  of  the  U.  S.  steamship  Princeton,  Captain 
Stockton,  during  an  excursion  down  the  Potomac.  The 
president,  accompanied  by  his  cabinet  with  their  families, 
and  many  other  distinguished  persons  were  on  board.  Dur- 
ing the  passage,  one  of  the  large  guns,  made  of  wrought 
iron,  on  berng  fired  the  third  time,  burst,  and  the  explosion 
instantly  killed  Mr.  Upshur,  secretary  of  state,  Mr.  Gilmer, 
secretary  of  the  navy,  Commodore  Kennon,  and  several 
others.  A  treaty  of  annexation  between  the  United  States 
and  Texas*  was  signed  by  the  president,  April  12,  but 
rejected  by  the  senate,  June  8th,  by  a  vote  of  35  to  16. 


4.  Which  party  prevailed?     What  occurred  on  board  of  the  Princeton? 

5.  When  was  a  treaty  for  the  annexation  of  Texas  signed  by  the  president  ? 
Did  the  senate  ratify  it  ?     What  can  you  say  of  Texas  ? 


*  Texas  constituted  a  part  of  Louisiana  at  the  time  of  the  purchase  of  that  vast 
territory  Ijy  Mr.  Jefferson,  in  180.3.  Mr.  Laussat,  the  French  commissioner,  who 
delivered  the  possession  of  Louisiana  to  our  govenimeut,  announced  the  Rio  Grande, 
or  Del  Norte,  as  its  true  boundary.  Texas  remained  in  our  possession  until  1819, 
when,  in  the  cession  of  Florida  to  the  United  States,  it  was  ceded  to  Spain,  and  the 
Sabine  river  was  made  the  boundary  between  the  United  States  and  New  Spain,  or 
Mexico. 

The  first  settlement  in  Texas  was  made  by  the  Spaniards,  at  San  Antonio  de  Bexar, 


264  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1844. 

6.  The  annexation  of  Texas  to  the  United  States  was 
sU-ong-ly  opposed  by  the  whia:  party,  and  hii::hly  approved 
bv  the  democratic  party  thi-oiig:hout  the  country.  During 
the  presidential  campaign  of  1844,  this  question  was  warmly 

6.  What  was  Uie  result  of  the  presidential  campaign  in  1844  ? 


in  1692.  La  Bahia  was  settled  in  1716,  Naci>iri1oches  in  17S2,  and  Victoria  siion  after. 
These  olil  Spanish  settlements  continued  to  be  surrounded  by  savage  Indians  until 
1S-.21.  and  Texas,  for  the  most  part,  was  an  unexplored  wil.ieriiess. 

On  tl\e  17ili  of  .Tanuary,  L^l.  Moses  Austin  obtained  {permission  from  the  supreme 
piverument  of  tlie  eaisteVn  provinces  of  New  Spain,  at  Monterey,  to  settle  a  colony 
of  emigrants  in  Texas.  In  the  month  ot'  December  lollowiui:.  his  son,  Stephen  ^. 
Austin^  arrivtxl  on  the  river  Brazos,  with  the  first  American  settlers.  From  that 
period  mav  be  dated  the  American  history  of  Texas.  Colonization  laws  were  soon 
at^er  passed  bv  the  Mexican  srov,  rnment.  iuul  other  inducoments  held  out  to  citizens 
of  the  United  States  to  settle  within  the  limits  of  that  state,  inuinuityinc  all  the  rights, 
liberties  and  immunities  o\  Mexican  citizens,  in  the  nnUeclion  of  their  persons  aiul 
propertv.  On  the  "Al  of  February,  l?^^,  the  Federal  Constitution  of  Mexico,  similar 
to  that  of  the  Unitetl  States,  was  proclaimed  as  the  established  polity  of  the  hind  : 
and  bv  a  dtx-ree  of  the  7th  oi  Mav  o(  the  siime  ye.ar.  the  provinces  of  Texas  and 
Coahuila  were  provisionallv  united  to  torm  one  of  tl\e  constituent  and  sovereign 
states  of  tl\e  Mexican  confederacv.  Under  these  enactments,  the  cvn-rent  ol  emigra- 
tion beff-an  to  flow  in.  .H.nd  spre.nd  itself  over  the  tertile  domains  cf  the  province  of 
Texas."^  The  forest  srave  way  to  the  ax  of  the  pioneer  ;  the  wild  prairie,  to  the  plow- 
share of  the  hus-bandman  :  plantations  were  opened,  and  villages  sprung  up  on  the 
huntiujr-srrounds  of  the  savage.  In  the  brief  period  of  nine  vears  from  the  tirst  set- 
tlement under  Austin,  the  Americans  had  explort>d  the  whole  southern  portion  of 
the  province,  redeemed  it  iVom  the  wilderness  of  the  wild  beast  and  Indian,  and 
covered  it  with  an  industrious  and  hardy  population. 

In  the  mean  time.  Mtxico  was  eonvnlsed  by  political  dissensions,  and  the  most  di.s- 
astrous  civil  wai-s.  Revolution  lollowed  upon  revolution,— nothing  wiis  perm.onent, 
but  disorder  and  misrule.  The  Te-xans.  sii  long  ;\.<  they  were  left  unmolested  in  tlie, 
enjovment  of  their  rights,  took  no  part,  and  felt  but  little  interest,  in  the  commotions 
of"  the  Mexican  government.  But  at  length,  their  rapidly-growing  strength  ami 
steadv  adherence  to  republican  principles,  began  to  .ittract  the  notice  and  excite  the 
jealousv  of  the  Mexican  authonties  ;  and  on  the  6th  of  April,  1S;^>.  an  arbitarv  law- 
was  passed,  prohibitinsr.  in  tutnre.  the  emigration  of  American  settlere  into  Texas. 
Militurv  posts  were  established  throughout  the  province.— the  civil  authorities  were 
trampled  under  toot.— and  the  people  were  subjected  to  the  capricious  tynuuiy  of 
unrestrained  milit.arv  misinile. 

In  IS^^Vi.  the  Texan's,  in  contbrmity  with  a  decree  of  the  7th  of  May.  1S:}4,  which 
granted  and  stxrured  to  them  a  separate  constitution  as  soon  as  they  possessed  the 
necess.\rv  elements  of  sell-tfovernment.  assembled  a  general  convention  at  S;m 
Felipe,  which  dralied  an  insirument.  suited  to  the  wants,  peculiar  character  and 
habits  of  the  people,  and  commissioned  Steidun  F.  Austm  to  present  it  to  the 
supreme  ffovernment.  with  a  resnectful  petition  that  it  might  be  s;uictioneil  and 
granted  in  accordsince  with  said  decree  of  the  7th  of  May,  lS-i4.  Instead  of  this,  it 
was  treated  with  disdain,  and  Austin  thrown  into  a  dungeon.  Santa  Anna,  who 
was  raised  to  the  chief  power,  bv  the  joint  etlbris  of  the  aristocracy  and  priesthood, 
for  the  purpose  of  overihrowiuff  the  tree  iustiintions  of  the  country,  in  183o  openly 
declared  in  tavor  of  .^bolishins  the  state  governments,  and  consolidating  all  power, 
civil  luul  mihtary,  iu  the  hands  of  a  single  individual.  Many  of  the  Mexicin  states 
h{id  recoui-se  to  arms  iu  support  of  their  sovereignty,  and  Santa  Anna  tbok  the  lield 
asrainst  them.  One  by  one,  the  states  were  crushed  by  the  usvuper, — all.  except 
Ttxas.  With  a  single  voire,  th.e  Texnns  declared  lor  the  constitution  of  May.  IS:^, 
and  an  immediate  appeal  to  arms.  There  was  no  alternative  letl  them,  and  they 
rose  l»ke  one  nian  for  the  prott^tion  of  their  rights,  their  liberties.  On  the  "iSth  of 
September,  1S33.  thev  del'eated  a  detachment  of  Mexicans  at  Gonzales.  On  the  9«h 
of  October,  the  stroiig  fortress  ot  Goliad  was  taken.     Numeaous  battles  were  fought 


1846.  POLK  8    ADMINISTRATION.  265 

discussed,  and  great  excitement  prevailed.  The  result 
showed  that  a  large  majority  of  the  people  were  in  favor  of 
the  measure.  James  K.  Polk,  of  Tennessee,  was  elected 
president,  and  George  M.  Dallas,  of  Pennsylvania,  vice- 
president.  In  accordance  with  the  wishes  of  l-'resident 
Tyler,  on  the  23d  of  January,  1845,  a  joint  resolution  for 
the  annexation  of  Texas  to  the  United  States  was  adopted 
by  the  house  of  representatives,  by  a  vote  of  118  to  101. 
(3n  the  3d  of  March,  Mr.  Tyler  proposed  to  submit  thin  to 
that  republic  as  an  overture  on  the  part  of  our  government 
for  her  admission  into  the  Union. 


JAMES   K.  POLK'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  On  the  4th  of  March,  1845,  Mr.  Polk  was  duly  in- 
augurated as  president  of  the  United  States.  The  cere- 
mony was  witnessed  by  an  immense  concourse  of  people  ; 
and  in  his  address  on  the  occasion,  he  clearly  stated  the 
principles  by  which  he  designed  to  administer  the  govern- 
ment during  his  presidential  term. 

1.  When  was  Mr.  Polk  inaugurated  ? 

'luring  the  autumn,  and  the  Texans  were  uniformly  victorious.  In  February,  18:36,, 
Smita  Anna,  at  the  head  of  8,(X)U  men,  entered  San  Antonio  de  Bexar,  and  the  Texan 
f,'arrison,  i.W  in  numb»-r,  retirefl  within  the  Alamo.  After  a  bombardment  of  seve- 
ral days,  on  the  0th  of  March,  the  Alamo  was  taken  by  afisault,  and  Travis,  Bowie, 
and  Crockett,  with  their  little  band  of  heroes,  were  all  put  to  the  sword.  On  the 
18th  of  March,  near  Goliad,  the  Tcxans,  under  Fannin,  were  surrounded  and  attack- 
ed by  a  much  superior  force  of  Mexicans,  undir  Gen.  Urea,  in  the  middle  of  an  open 
prairie.  At  first,  the  Mexicans  were  repulsed,  but  receiving  a  strom?  reinforcement, 
they  renewed  the  attack,  and  the  'I'exans  beinsj  hemmed  in,  and  entirely  cut  off  from 
water,  surrendered  on  condition  of  bfintr  released  on  parole  and  transported  to  the 
United  Htates.  But  these  terms  were  basely  violated,  and  Fannin  and  his  brave 
comrades  were  m;issacred  in  cold  blood. 

Notwitlistaiiriint:  the  near  approach  of  the  Mexican  forces,  a  newly-elected  conven- 
tion met  at  Wasliiiie'on,  arjd  on  (lie  2d  day  of  March,  1R36,  made  a  formal  and  abso- 
lute dwlaration  of  "  The  liidepindeiice  of  T'-xas."  'J'hey  then  proceeded  to  frame 
a  constitution,  to  be  submitted  to  the  people  for  adoption,  and  after  or;:anizing  a 
povernment  "  ad  interim,"  composed  of  a  president,  vice-president,  and  cabinet, 
they  arijounied  in  time  for  many  of  their  injmber  to  join  tiie  patriot  army  under 
Gen.  Houston,  before  his  meetinff  with  the  Mexican  forces  under  Santa  Anna.  On 
the  21st  of  April,  the  two  armies  met  on  the  field  of  San  Jacinto,  and  thcrn,  the  Inde- 
pendence of  Texa.s  was  sealed  and  consecrated  by  the  blood  of  its  enemies,  by  the 
capture  of  Santa  Anna,  the  Mexicmi  jri  neral  and  president,  and  by  the  annihilation 
of  his  army.  From  that  time,  M<xico  never  attempted  any  serious  invasion  of 
Texas;  but  confined  herself  to  a  desultory  and  predatory  warfare  on  the  border, 
often  charact(ri/,.-d  by  acts  revolting  to  humanity.  In  183f>,  Texas  adopted  her  con- 
stitution, under  which  she  existed  as  a  sovereign  power,  until  she  was  annexed  to 
the  United  States,  in  1845. 

23 


266  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1845. 

2.  On  the  4th  of  July,  1845,  Texas  accepted  the  terms 
of  the  joint  resolution  passed  by  congress,  and  thus  virtu- 
ally became  a  state  of  the  American  Union.  Although 
Texas  had  maintained  her  independence  more  than  nine 
years,  Mexico*  still  continued  her  hostile  feehngs,  regarded 
it  as  a  revolted  province,  and  threatened  to  send  an  army  to 
reduce  it  to  submission.  For  the  purpose  of  repelhng  any 
attempt  at  invasion  by  Mexico,  in  August,  Gen.  Zachary 
Taylor,  by  orders  of  the  government,  proceeded  with  a 
small  force  to  Corpus  Christi,  and  there  established  his 
head-quarters. 

3.  The  first  session  of  the  twenty-ninth  congress  com- 
menced December  1st,  1845,  and  continued  until  August 
10th,  1846.     On  the  29th  of  December,  1845,  an  act  was 

2.  When  did  Texas  accept  the  terms  of  the  joint  resolution  ?    Why  was 
Gen.  Taylor  sent  with  troops  into  the  western  part  of  Texas  ? 

3.  What  acts  were  passed  by  congress  ? 

•  Mexico  was  conquered  by  Cortez,  in  1521.  He  named  it  New  Spain.  It 
remained  subject  to  the  Spanish  government,  or  was  governed  by  viceroys,  until 
1822,  when  it  became  independent  of  Spain.  In  1824,  a  constitution  was  formed 
similar  to  that  of  the  United  States;  but  the  government  lias,  for  the  most  part, 
been  administered  more  on  the  principles  of  a  military  despotism,  than  those  of 
a  repubhc.  Immediately  after  Mexico  had  declared  her  independence  of  Spain, 
she  commenced  a  series  of  insults  and  spoilalions  upon  the  commerce  of  the 
United  States.  Our  citizens,  while  engaged  in  lawful  trade  with  the  citizens  of  Mex- 
ico, were  imprisoned,  their  goods,  their  vessels  seized,  and  our  Hag  insulted  in  all 
the  ports  of  that  republic.  The  government  of  the  United  States  frequently  demand- 
ed redress  in  behalf  of  her  plundered  citizens,  but  it  was  refused,  or  the  subject 
evaded,  and  new  outrages  committed.  Although  the  United  States  were  the  first 
nation  to  acknowledge  her  independence,  and  ever  treated  her  as  a  sister  republic, 
yet  in  her  intercourse  with  our  citizens,  she  utterly  disregarded  all  the  laws  of  civi- 
lized nations.  At  length,  ^n  the  5th  of  April,  1831,  "a  treaty  of  amity  and  naviga- 
tion" was  concluded  between  the  two  republics;  yet,  scarcely  had  two  months 
passed  away,  before  fresh  outrages  were  perpetrated.  In  less  than  seven  years  after 
that  treaty  was  concluded,  the  outrages  became  so  intolerable  that  President  Jack- 
son, in  his  message  to  congress,  said,  ''they  should  bg  no  longer  endured."  A  mes- 
senger was  dispatched  to  Mexico,  in  1837,  to  demand  redress.  The  Mexican  govern- 
ment expressed  a  wish  for  the  continuation  of  friendly  feelings,  and  promised  that 
the  difficulties  should  be  settled;  but  these  assurances  were  never  fulfilled.  Mag- 
nanimity and  moderation  on  the  part  of  the  United  States  only  had  the  effect  of  in- 
creasing these  outrages.  A  joint  commission  was  organized  August  11th,  1840,  the 
Eowers  of  which  were  to  terminate  in  February,  1842.  The  claim.s  allowed  by  this 
oard  before  the  commission  expired, — due  to  our  citizens,— amounted  to  .ft'2,026,139. 
The  amount  of  unsettled  claims  at  that  time,  due  to  our  citizens,  was  S928,627.  A 
second  convention  was  concluded  between  the  two  governments,  .January  30th, 
1843,  which  decided  that  the  interest  due  on  the  claims  allowed,  should  be  paid  the 
30th  of  April,  1843,  and  the  principal,  with  the  interest  accruing  thereon,  in  five 
years,  in  equal  in.stalments  every  three  months.  Although  the  payment  of  these 
sums  was  secured  by  treaty,  yet  the  claimants  have  only  received  the  interest  due 
on  the  30lh  of  April,  1843.  and  three  out  of  the  twenty  instalments.  Mexico,  in  the 
repeated  violations  of  solemn  treaties,  showed  a  want  of  good  faith,  and  afforded 
ample  cause  for  a  war  many  years  before  the  actual  commencement  of  hostilities. 


1846.  folk's  administration.  26Y 

passed  for  the  admission  of  Texas  as  a  state  into  the 
Union.  Many  important  bills  were  passed,  among  which 
was  the  bill  re-establishing  the  sub-treasury,  the  warehouse- 
ing  bill,  the  bill  for  the  estabhshment  of  the  Smithsonian 
Institute.  The  tariff  law  of  1842  was  repealed,  and  an- 
other substituted,  which  reduced,  in  a  considerable  degree, 
the  duties  on  imports.  About  the  same  time,  the  British 
government  made  a  similar  change  in  her  corn  laws,  and 
reduced  many  other  duties.  This  simultaneous  abandon- 
ment of  a  protective  tariff  by  both  nations,  gave  a  new  im- 
pulse to  commerce  and  navigation,  and  opened  new  markets 
for  the  agricultural  and  other  products  of  both  countries. 

4.  On  the  16th  of  June,  the  Oregon  question,  which  had 
long  been  a  subject  of  dispute  between  Great  Britain  and 
the  United  States,  was  settled,  by  making  the  forty-ninth 
degree  of  north  latitude,  and  the  strait  of  Juan  de  Fuca,  the 
boundary  line  between  Oregon  and  British  America.  In 
the  mean  time,  open  hostihties  had  been  commenced  by 
Mexico  against  the  United  States.  On  the  6th  of  March, 
1846,  General  Taylor,  by  order  of  the  president,  moved  his 
troops  from  Corpus  Christi  to  Point  Isabel,  which  he  forti- 
fied and  made  his  main  depot  for  supplies  and  military 
stores  for  his  army.  He  then  proceeded  to  the  Rio  Grande, 
and  on  the  28th  of  March  established  himself  on  the  east 
bank,  opposite  Matamoras,  and  shortly  erected  Fort  Brown. 

5.  In  April,  Colonel  Cross,  United  States  quartermaster- 
general,  was  murdered  by  one  of  those  bands  of  Mexicans 
called  rancheros.  This  was  the  first  life  lost  in  the  war. 
Soon  after,  a  small  reconnoitering  party,  consisting  of  Lieut. 
Porter  and  three  otl^s,  were  murdered.  Large  parties  of 
Mexicans  now  daily  crossed  the  Rio  Grande,  spread  them- 
selves between  Point  Isabel  and  Fort  Brown,  and  thus  cut 
off  all  communication  between  the  two  places.  Aware  of 
the  absolute  necessity  of  free  access  to  his  depot,  on  the 
1st  of  May,  General  Taylor  departed  with  the  main  body 
of  his   army^  leaving  the  river  and  fort  in  care  of  Major 

4.  When  was  the  Oregon  question  settled?  When  did  Gen.  Taylor  move 
his  troops  to  Point  Isabel?     To  the  Rio  Grande  ?     What  fort  was  soon  built? 

5.  Who  was  murdered  by  the  Mexicans  ?  What  did  the  Mexicans  then 
do  ?    Why  did  Gen.  Taylor  return  to  Point  Isabel  ? 


268  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1846. 

Brown.     On  the  evening  of  the  2d  he  reaphed  Point  Isabel 
without  encountering  a  single  Mexican. 

6.  As  soon  as  the  Mexicans  became  aware  of  the  depar- 
ture of  Gen.  Taylor,  they  opened  a  heavy  cannonade  upon 
Fort  Brown,  which  they  continued  for  several  days.  The 
Americans,  notwithstanding  the  smallness  of  their  number, 
returned  the  fire  with  spirit,  and  gallantly  sustained  the 
unequal  contest.  On  his  return  from  Point  Isabel,  on  the 
8th  of  May,  at  2  p.  m.,  Gen.  Taylor  met  at  Palo  Aho  about 
6,000  Mexicans,  drawn  up  in  order  of  battle  across  a  plain, 
ready  to  receive  him.  Our  little  army,  numbering  about 
one-third  of  the  enemy,  was  soon  formed  in. battle  array, 
and  the  action  commenced.  Ringgold's  and  Duncan's 
batteries  opened  with  terrible  effect,  sweeping  down  pla- 
toons at  every  discharge.  The  Mexicans,  confident  of 
victory,  fought  bravely  for  hours ;  but  the  storm  from  our 
artillery  was  resistless — their  infantry  broke  in  confusion, 
the  cavalry  gave  way,  and  the  whole  army,  at  length, 
retreated,  having  lost,  in  killed  and  wounded,  about  500. 
The  Americans  had  nine  killed  and  forty-two- wounded. 
The  brave  Ringgold,  the  leader  of  the  light  artillery,  fell  in 
the  action. 

7.  On  the  following  day,  Gen.  Taylor  recommenced  his 
march,  and  at  4  r.  m.,  came  up  with  the  Mexicans,  who 
were  strongly  posted  at  a  ravine  called  Resaca  de  la 
Palma.  The  two  armies  at  once  engaged,  and  the  action 
soon  became  general.  The  Mexican  infantry,  in  a  short 
time,  gave  waj^  before  the  resistless  progress  of  the  Ame- 
ricans, while  their  central  battery  checked  all  advances 
along  the  roads.  Seeing  that  the  wli0e  battle  rested  here, 
Gen.  Taylor  ordered  Capt.  May  to  charge  the  battery  with 
his  squadron  of  dragoons.  This  he  gallantly  performed, 
driving  the  artillerymen  from  their  pieces,  and  capturing 
Gen.  La  Vega,  who  remained  alone  at  one  of  the  guns. 
The  enemy  now  fled  on  all  sides,  rapidly  pursued  by  the 
Americans.     Leaving  baggage — every  thing-*-they  rushed 

6.  What  did  the  Mexicans  do  after  Gen.  Taylor  left  ?  Describe  the  battle 
of  Palo  Alto. 

7.  Describe  the  battle  of  Resaca  de  la  Palma. 


1846.  POLKS    ADMINISTRATION.  269 

furiously  toward  the  river,  to  escape  to  Matamoras.     The 
victory  was  complete. 

8.  On  the  15th,  Barita  was  taken  by  the  Americans; 
and  on  the  18th,  our  army  crossed  the  Rio  Grande,  and 
took  possession  of  Matamoras  without  any  opposition. 
For  want  of  troops  and  supplies.  Gen.  Taylor  was  com- 
pelled to  remain  inactive  at  that  post  the  greater  part  of  the 
summer.  In  the  mean  time,  Mier,  Reynosa,  and  Camarge 
had  been  occupied  by  the  Americans  without  resistance. 
On  the  5th  of  September,  Gen.  Taylor  received  information 
that  Gen.  Ampudia  had  arrived  at  Monterey,  the  capital  of 
New  Leon,  with  a  large  Mexican  force,  and  was  fortifying 
that  place  with  the  greatest  care. 

9.  Gen.  Taylor,  having  received  reinforcements,  on  the 
7th  of  September,  proceeded  with  6.600  men  from  Mata- 
moras, and  on  the  19th  encamped  at  Walnut  Springs,  three 
miles  from  Monterey.  The  order  of  attack  was  formed  in 
three  divisions :  the  first,  under  Gen.  Twiggs  ;  the  second, 
under  Gen.  Worth  ;  and  the  third,  under  Gen.  Butler.  Gen. 
Worth  was  ordered  to  gain,  by  a  circuitous  route,  the  Sal- 
tillo  road,  and  storm  the  heights  above  the  Bishop's  Palace. 
Generals  Twiggs  and  Butler,  were  to  make  a  movement 
against  the  center  and  left  of  the  city.  On  the  evening  of 
the  21st  the  battle  commenced,  and  for  three  days  raged 
with  great  fury.  The  redouts  in  the  rear  were  carried,  the 
Bishop's  Palace  stormed,  and  the  city  entered  at  all  points. 
The  fight  now  became  terrific.  A  deadly  fire  was  poured 
upon  our  troops  from  every  housetop,  door,  and  window. 
Yet  still,  led  on  by  Gluitman  and  Worth,  they  advanced, 
entered  the  houses,  dug  through  the  sidewalls,  fighting 
hand  to  hand  until  they  came  within  one  square  of  the 
principal  plaza.  On  the  next  morning  the  place  was  sur- 
rendered, and  the  Mexicans  allowed  to  retire  with  their 
arms.  .Our  loss  in  killed  and  wounded  was  about  500 — 
that  of  the  Mexicans  1,000.  The  capture  of  Monterey,  de- 
fended by  10,000  troops,  with  forty-two  pieces  of  artillery, 

8.  When  was  Barita  taken  ?     When  was  Matamoras  taken  possession  of? 

9.  When  did  Gen.  Taylor  leave  Matamoras  ?  Describe  the  battle  of  Mon- 
terey. 

23* 


270 


HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1846. 


ATTLK     OF     MONTEREY. 


and  fortifications  of  immense  strength,  by  a  force  so  greatly 
inferior,  was  a  bold  and  daring  achievement,  and  forms  a 
brilliant  chapter  in  the  pages  of  history. 

10.  Gen.  Taylor  now  established  his  head-quarters  at 
Monterey,  and  detached  Gen.  Worth,  with  1,200  men,  to 
Saltillo ;  and  Gen.  Wool,  with  2,400  men,  to  Parras.  In 
the  mean  time,  Paredes  had  been  deposed,  and  Santa  Anna 
recalled  from  exile  in  Cuba,  and  placed  at  the  head  of 
Mexican  affairs.  Santa  Anna,  the  m.oment  he  reached  the 
capital,  set  about  collecting  a  force  sufficient  to  resist  the 
further  advances  of  the  victorious  Americans.  Before  the 
close  of  the  year,  he  had  succeeded  in  raising  an  army  of 
more  than  20,000  men,  and  concentrating  them  at  San  Luis 
Potosi,  which  he  strongly  fortified,  and  filled  with  militaiy 
stores. 

11.  In  the  mean  time,  Gen.  Scott  had  been  appointed  to 
the  chief  command  of  the  army  in  Mexico,  and  had  been 
obliged  to  call  on  Gen.  Taylor  for  nearly  all  the  regular 
troops  under  his  command,  to  aid  in  the  reduction  of  Vera 

10.  What  did  General  Taylor  now  do?  What  took  place  at  that  time  in 
Mexico  ? 

11.  Who  was  appointed  to  the  chief  command  of  the  army  ? 


184'7.  folk's  administration.  271 

Cmz.  In-  Feb.,  1847,  however,  reinforcements  of  volun- 
teers arrived,  and  Taylor's  force  amounted  to  about  6,000 
men.  Receiving  information  that  Santa  Anna  designed  to 
possess  himself  of  the  line  of  posts  between  himself  and 
Matamoras,  Taylor  resolved  to  meet  him  on  his  own 
ground. 

12.  Accordingly  he  left  Monterey,  and  on  the  20th  of 
February  encamped  at  Agua  Nueva,  with  a  force  of  5,000 
men.  Learning  that  Santa  Anna,  at  the  head  of  20,000 
men,  was  rapidlj^  approaching  him,  and  but  twenty  miles 
distant,  Taylor  fell  back  to  Buena  Vista,  a  mountain  pass 
of  remarkable  natural  strength,  seven  miles  from  Saltillo. 
On  the  morning  of  the  22d,  the  Mexicans,  in  immense 
numbers,  were  seen  advancing  ;  and  about  noon,  Santa 
Anna  sent  a  summons  to  Gen.  Taylor  to  surrender.  The 
old  hero  declined  this  courteous  request ;  and  at  sunrise, 
next  morning,  the  ba.ttle  commenced  in  earnest.  As  the 
enemy  advanced  in  overwhelming  numbers,  Washington's, 
Sherman's,  and  Bragg's  batteries  poured,  in  fierce  and  rapid 
succession,  the  most  destructive  volleys,  sweeping  away 
whole  columns,  and  compelling  them  to  retreat.  Again 
and  again  they  renev/ed  the  charge,  but  were  as  often  re- 
pulsed. At  length,  darkness  closed  the  contest.  Both 
armies  rested  on  the  field.  Before  morning,  however,  the 
Mexicans  retired,  having  lost,  in  killed  and  wounded,  about 
2,000.  The  loss  of  the  Americans  was  267  killed,  and  456 
wounded.  The  victory  was  complete,  and  secured  to  the 
Americans  the  quiet  possession  of  the  northern  provinces 
of  Mexico.  Soon  after  the  battle,  Gen.  Taylor  returned  to 
Monterey,  and  Gen.  Wool,  with  the  main  body  of  the 
army,  encamped  at  Buena  Vista. 

13.  Soon  after,  Gen.  Scott  commenced  his  brilliant  career 
in  the  southern  part  of  Mexico.  On  the  1st  of  Jan.,  1847, 
he  reached  the  Rio  Grande,  and  on  the  9th  of  March,  with 
the  assistance  of  Commodore  Connor,  of  the  Gulf  squadron, 
disembarked  his  troops  near  Vera  Cruz.     Having  planted 

12.  Describe  the  battle  of  Buena  Vista. 

13.  When  did  Gen.  Scott  reach  Vera  Cruz?    Describe  the  capture  of  that 
city. 


212 


HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 


1847. 


CAP  TURK     OF     VERA     CRUZ 


his  batteries,  and  prepared  for  the  siege,  on  the  22d  he 
sent  a  summons  to  the  Mexican  commander  to  surrender 
the  place.  The  summons  was  rejected,  and  shortly  after 
the  batteries  opened  on  the  city.  From  this  time,  with  few 
interruptions,  the  cannonading  continued  with  immense  de- 
struction of  life  and  property  to  the  inhabitants,  until  the 
morning  of  the  26th,  when  Gen.  Landero,  the  Mexican 
governor,  opened  negotiations  with  General  Scott,  which 
finally  resulted  in  the  surrender  of  the  city  and  the  castle 
of  San  Juan  de  Ulloa.*  On  the  29th,  the  Mexican  troops 
marched  out  of  Vera  Cruz,  laid  down  their  arm.s,  and  de- 
parted for  the  interior,  and  our  troops  entered  and  took  pos- 
session of  the  city.  About  5,000  stands  of  arms,  400 
cannon,  and  a  large  quantity  of  military  stores,  fell  into 
the  hands  of  the  Americans.  During  the  siege,  our  army 
lost  seventeen  killed  and  twenty-eight  wounded.  The 
Mexican  loss  was  very  great.  Considered  in  a  military 
point  of  view,  this  was  one  of  the  most  glorious  victories 
in  the  history  of  modern  warfare. 


*  The  ca.stle  of  San  Juan  de  Ulloa,  is  one  of  the  strongest  fortresses  in  the 
world.  It  is  situated  on  an  island  directly  opposite  the  city  of  Vera  Cruz,  in  a. 
position  to  command  the  whole  harbor. 


1847.  folk's  administration.  2*73 

14.  Early  in  April,  our  army  commenced  its  march  for 
the  interior  of  Mexico.  On  the  16th,  it  arrived  at  the 
strong  mountain  pass  of  Gerro  Gordo,  where  Santa  Anna 
was  securely  intrenched,  with  about  15,000  men.  Along 
the  front  declivity  were  several  powerful  batteries,  and  on 
the  highest  peak  of  the  precipice — more  than  1,000  feet 
high — was  the  strong  fortress  of  Cerro  Gordo,  which  com- 
manded every  point  in  the  road  below.  Gen.  Scott,  per- 
ceiving that  an  attack  in  front  would  be  in  vain,  ordered  a 
road  to  be  cut  round  the  base  of  the  mountains,  directly 
to  the  rear  of  the  Mexican  forts.  Heavy  artillery  were 
taken  to  the  heights,  and  on  the  morning  of  the  18th, 
opened  on  the  intrenchments  of  the  enemy  with  deadly 
eiFect.  Col.  Harney  led  his  men,  in  the  midst  of  a  destruc- 
tive fire,  up  the  heights,  stormed  the  citadel,  and  unfurled 
the  stars  and  stripes  from  the  tower  of  Cerro  Gordo.  The 
Mexicans,  repulsed  at  all  points,  were  put  to  a  total  rout. 
Santii  Anna  escaped  on  a  mule,  leaving  his  carriage,  contain- 
ing a  large  amount  of  specie,  his  papers,  &c.,  behind.  Five 
Mexican  generals  and  6,000  men  surrendered  themselves 
prisoners.  The  loss  on  each  side  was  about  500  in  killed 
and  wounded. 

15.  On  the  19th  of  April,  Gen.  Twiggs  took  possession 
of  the  town  of  Jalapa ;  and  on  the  22d  Gen.  Worth  and 
his  division  occupied  the  strong  castle*  and  town  of  Perote. 
On  the  15th  of  May,  Gen.  Worth,  with  4,000  troops,  en- 
tered the  ancient  and  beautiful  city  of  Puebla,  called,  in 
the  Spanish  tongue,  Puebla  de  los  Angelos,  "  City  of  the 
Angels."  Here  Gen.  Scott  remained  with  his  army  until 
the  8th  of  August.  There  were  two  reasons  for  this  delay. 
The  first  was  :  our  government  had  been  anxious  for  peace 
from  the  beginning — had  sought  every  opportunity  for  nego- 
tiations, and  now  sent  Mr.  Nicholas  P.  Trist  to  Mexico,  as 
agent,  to  terminate  the  war,  if  possible,  by   an  honorable 

14.  When  did  our  army  leave  Vera  Cruz  for  the  interior  of  Mexico?  When 
did  the  battle  of  Cerro  Gordo  take  place? 

15.  When  was  Jalapa  taken?     Perote.?     Puebla?    Why  did  Gen.  Scott 
make  a  halt  at  Puebla  ? 

*  The  castle  of  Perote  is  one  of  the  strongest  in  Mexico.    In  it  were  54  cannon 
and  mortars ;  11,000  cannon  balls ;  14,000  bombs,  and  500  muskets. 


274  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  184Y. 

peace.  The  aecond  was  :  our  little  army,  although  "  a  baml 
of  heroes,"  was  too  small  to  proceed  further  until  rein- 
forced. 

16.  During-  these  operations  of  the  annies  under  Gen- 
erals Scott  and  Taylor,  our  squadron  had  captured  all  the 
Mexican  ^xirts  on  the  Gulf  of  Mexico.  On  the  14th  of  Oct., 
1840,  Tampico,  one  of  the  most  important  posts  to  Mexico, 
was  taken  bv  Commodore  Connor.  On  the  *23d,  Frontiera 
was  captured  by  Commodore  Perry,  and  on  the  25tli 
Tabasco.  Soon  after,  Alvarado  and  Tlacotalpam  were 
taken  by  Lieut.  Hunter.  On  the  1 8th  of  April,  1846,  the 
town  and  port  of  Tuspan  was  captured  by  Commodore 
Perry. 

17.  Our  government,  believing  that  the  states  of  New 
Mexico,  Chihuahua,  Durango,  and  othei*s  in  the  upper  por- 
tion of  jNIexico,  stood  ready  to  declare  themselves  mdepen- 
dent,  fitted  out  an  expedition  thither,  under  Col.  Kearney. 
He  left  Fort  Leven worth  on  the  30th  of  June,  1846,  and 
after  an  arduous  march  of  873  miles,  amved  at  Santa  Fe, 
the  capital  of  New  Mexico,  on  the  18th  of  August,  and 
took  possession  of  that  state  without  resistance.* 

18.  About  the  same  time.  Col.  Fremont,  assisted  by  the 
squadron  under  Com.  Stockton,  in  the  Pacific,  took*  pos- 
session of  California.  They  encountered  but  little  resist- 
ance, and  on  the  13th  of  August,  1846,  entered  the  -  City 
of  Angels,''   the  capital  of  the  Cahfornias.     They   estab- 


16.  What  had  our  squadron  done  in  the  mean  time  .' 

17.  Who  was  sent  to  New  Mexico  .'     What  did  Col.  Kearney  do  ? 

18.  What  did  Col.  Fremont  do  ? 


*  Shortly  after  the  conquest  of  New  Mexico,  occurred  one  of  those  military  ad- 
ventures almost  unp;ir;illeled  in  history.  This  was  the  march  o(  Col.  Ponlphan's 
corps  throuiih  ihe  wild  and  unknown  regions  of  Northern  Mexico.  About  the  1st  of 
Dec.  1S46.  he  let\  Santa  Fe  with  SlK)  men,  destined  for  Chihuahua.  At  Broziios,  on 
the  v21st  ot  Dec.,  he  was  suddenly  attacked  by  a  large  force  of  Mexican  lancers  and 
infantry.  A  well-directed  tire  of  his  rillemen  sent  terror  and  dismay  into  their 
ranks,  and  put  them  to  llisrht.  Doniphan  tlien  pursued  his  march.  6n  the  a7th, 
he  entered  El  Paso  del  Norte  without  opposition.  On  the  ".2;^  of  February,  he 
reached  Carmen,  and  on  the  "iSth  his  uniirress  was  interrupted  by  a  large  Mexican 
force  of  more  than  l.lXX)  men.  intrenched  near  the  Ranclio  Sacramento,  in  one  of 
the  strongest  mountain  passes  of  Mexico.  A  desperate  action  ensued.  The  Ame- 
ricans, at  length,  rushing  up  the  intrenciiments, poured  in  such  a  deadly  tire,  that 
the  Mexicans  broke,  and  tied  in  consternation,  leaving  their  artillery  and  military 
stores  in  the  hands  of  the  victorious  .\mericans.  The  next  day,  Col.  Doniphaii 
entered  Chihuahua,  and  look  formal  possession,  in  the  name  of  the  United  Slates. 


1847.  folk's  administration.  275 

lished  a  form  of  government,  at  the  head  of  which  was 
placed  Col.  Fremont, 

19.  Gen.  Scott,  having  received  reinforcements,  on  the 
8th  of  August  left  Puebla  with  10,738  men,  and  moved 
forward  to  the  conquest  of  Mexico,  the  capital  of  the 
Spanish  Aztec  nation.  On  the  10th,  they  passed  the  Rio 
Frio — a  place  of  great  natural  strength — and  came  within 
sight  of  the  vast  plain  of  Mexico.  On  the  15th,  they 
reached  Ayotla,  fifteen  miles  from  Mexico.  From  this 
place,  the  road  to  the  city  is  a  causeway,  traversing  a 
marsh,  and  is  commanded  by  a  lofty  hill,  called  El  Penon, 
which  had  been  fortified  with  the  greatest  care  by  Santa 
Anna.  To  avoid  this  strong  fortification,  our  army  cut  a 
road  around  Lake  Chalco,  and  on  the  18th  reached  San 
Augustine,  nine  miles  south  of  Mexico. 

20.  On  the  19th,  Generals  Pillow  and  Tv/iggs,  with 
4,000  men,  proceeded  to  Contreras,  three  miles  distant, 
where  Gen.  Valencia  was  strongly  posted  with  8,000  Mex- 
icans, in  a  position  to  sweep  the  road  with  his  batteries. 
Nothing  effectual  was  done  until  past  midnight,  when  the 
Americans  rushed  forward,  and  charged  the  works.  In  an 
instant  all  was  a  mass  of  confusion.  The  enemy  broke 
and  fled,  each  striving  to  be  foremost  in  the  flight.  The 
victory  was  brilliant  and  decisive.  The  Mexican  loss  was 
700  killed,  1,000  wounded,  813  prisoners,  22  brass  cannon, 
and  an  immense  quantity  of  military  stores.  Our  loss,  in 
killed  and  wounded,  did  not  exceed  sixty. 

21.  On  the  same  day,  our  troops  proceeded  to  Churu- 
busco,  a  place  strongly  defended  both  by  nature  and  art. 
Here  Santa  Anna  had  collected  27,000  of  his  choicest 
troops,  resolved  to  make  a  desperate  stand  for  the  defense 
of  the  capital.     At  1  p.  m  the  attack  commenced,  and  con- 

19.  When  did  Gen.  Scott  resume  his  march  ? 

20.  Describe  the  battle  of  Contreras. 

21.  The  battle  of  Churubusco. 

On  the  25th  of  April,  Doniphon  left  Chihuahua,  with  his  little  band,  arrived  at 
Monterey  the  2.")th  of  May,  and  New  Orleans  on  the  25th  of  June.  He  and  his 
troops  pursued  their  uncheclted  career  for  more  ttian  5,0CI0  miles,  over  mountain 
tops  and  sandy  plains,  in  snow  and  ice,  in  rain  and  hot  deserts,  amid  the  homes  of 
civilization  and  the  wilds  of  savages— amid  the  fires  of  battle,  and  the  sports  of  the 
camp,  and  the  adventures  of  the  wild  wildernesB. 


276  HISTORY   OF   THE   UNITED   STATES.  1847. 

tinued  for  three  hours,  when  the  enemy  were  routed  at  all 
points,  and  were  pursued  by  our  troops  to  the  very  gates 
of  the  city.  The  Mexican  loss  was  600  killed  and 
wounded,  and  1,100  prisoners.  Our  loss  in  killed  and 
wounded  was  1,053.  Gen.  Scott  might  have  entered  the 
capital  that  evening,  but  hoping  that  the  Mexicans  would 
now  be  disposed  to  treat  for  peace,  halted  his  victorious 
army,  and  an  armistice  was  soon  after  proposed  and  agreed 
upon. 

22.  Mr.  Trist,  our  commissioner,  being  unsuccessful  in 
his  attempts  to  negotiate  a  peace,  and  the  armistice  having 
been  repeatedly  violated  by  the  Mexicans,  on  the  5th  of 
September,  General  Scott  resolved  on  a  vigorous  prosecution 
of  the  war.  On  the  8th,  our  troops  attacked  Mohno  del 
Rey,  or  the  "  King's  Mill" — a  stone  building  of  massive, 
high  walls,  used  as  a  depot  and  foundry.  The  enemy  had 
stronglj^  intrenched  themselves  there,  and  were  commanded 
by  Santa  Anna  in  person.  The  battle  raged  with  desperate 
fury  for  two  hours,  when  the  enemy  were  totally  routed. 

23.  One  stronghold  now  alone  remained  to  the  enemy. 
This  was  Chapultepec — a  steep,  bluff,  rocky  height,  rising 
150  feet,  strongly  fortified  at  its  base  and  acclivities,  and 
on  its  height  was  a  strong  castle  and  military  college. 
This  was  attacked  on  the  12th,  and  was  one  of  the  most 
desperate  actions  fought  during  the  war.  Our  batteries 
told  with  terrible  effect  upon  the  enemy's  works.  The 
buildings  were  crashed  through,  and  the  ramparts  torn  up, 
while,  in  return,  the  Mexicans  rained  down  an  incessant 
fire  upon  the  assailants  below.  The  assault  continued 
throughout  the  day.  The  next  morning.  Pillow's  and 
Worth's  divisions  were  ordered  to  storm  the  works.  They 
advanced  over  rocks,  through  dense  woods,  driving  the 
enemy  before  them.  On  they  swept  in  the  face  of  a  mur- 
derous fire,  ascended  the  acclivities,  stormed  the  batteries, 
and  mounted  the  walls  of  the  castle.  Col.  T.  H.  Sey- 
mour, of  the  New  England  regiment,  tore  down  the  Mex- 
ican flag,  and  planted  the  American  standard  in  its  place. 


22.  Describe  the  battle  of  Molino  del  Rey. 

23.  Chepultepac. 


1848. 


folk's  administration. 


2Y7 


With  wild  shouts,  the  troops  rushed  on,  sweeping  all  before 
them  like  a  whirlwind.  The  fortress  was  carried,  and 
access  to  the  city  opened  to  the  American  army. 


SCOTT 


NTO  THK  CITY   OF   MEXICO, 


24.  On  the  14th,  oar  army  entered  and  occupied  the 
capital  of  the  Mexican  empire.  The  stars  and  stripes 
floated  over  "  the  Halls  of  the  Montezumas,"  and  the  loud, 
hearty  cheers  of  our  troops  announced  that  the  object  of 
their  long  and  eventful  march  had  been  realized.  General 
Quitman  was  appointed  military  governor,  and  by  prompt 
and  energetic  measures,  order  and  confidence  were  restored 
among  soldiers  and  citizens.  The  stores  and  public  places 
were  opened,  and  the  city  assumed  a  peaceful  appearance. 
Thus  the  war  was  essentially  terminated.  Mexico  was 
humbled,  crushed,  and  incapable  of  further  resistance.  On 
the  2d  of  Feb.,  1848,  a  treaty  of  peace*  was  concluded  be- 


24.  When  did  the  American  army  enter  Mexico  : 
peace  concluded  ? 


When  was  a  treaty  of 


*  By  this  treaty  the  boundary  between  the  two  governments  commences  at  the 

month  of  the  Rio  Grande,  and  proceeds  up  the  middle  of  the  deepest  channel  of 
that  river  to  the  southern  buundnrv  of  New  Mexico  ;  thence  westwarcily,  along  the 
Bouthern  boundary  of  New  Mexico' to  its  western  termination;  thence  northwardly, 

24 


27S  HISTOKY    OF    TUK    INlTKn    STATHS.  1849. 

tween  tho  United  States  and  Mexico,  and  soon  after  rati- 
lieti  by  onr  i^overnment. 

*2rv  Uy  this  treaty,  Mexico  ceded  to  the  I'nited  States 
more  than  two  milhoi\  st|uaui(  miles  of  territory.  This,  how- 
ever, was  regarded  by  many,  at  the  time,  as  of  compara- 
tively little  value,  except  tho  bay  of  San  Francisco,  which 
constitutes  one  of  the  most  magniticent  harbors  on  the 
globe.  In  February,  1848,  an  accidental  discovery  of  gold 
was  made  on  the  land  of  Capt.  Sutter,  in  California.  Soon 
after,  it  was  ascertained  that  this  precious  metal  existed  in 
immense  quantities  in  that  extensive  region.  The  news 
o\'  this  rapidly  spread  from  country  to  country,  and  aston- 
ished the  whole  civilized  world.  Thousands  upon  thou- 
sands left  their  homes  for  this  western  El  Dorado,  or  ''  land 
o(  boundless  wealth."'  The  gold  dejx^sits,  or  "'  placers,"  as 
they  are  called,  are  mostly  in  the  valley  of  the  Sacramento. 
Millions  of  gold  have  already  been  gatliered,  and  yet  tho 
quantity  seems  as  inexhaustible  as  ever.  San  Francisco 
has  become  a  large  and  important  place,  and  seems  des- 
tined to  become  one  of  the  most  populous  cities  in  America. 

*20.  On  the  09th  of  May,  1848.  Wisconsin  was  adnutted 
as  a  state  into  the  Union.  On  the  14th  of  August.  Oregon 
was  erected  into  a  territorial  government;  and  on  the  od  of 
March,  1849.  a  territorial  government  was  established  over 
Minesota.  The  pivsidential  election  of  1848,  resulted  in 
tho  choice  of  (.general  Zachary  Taylor,  of  Ijouisiana,  for 
president,  and  Millard  Fillmore,  of  New  York,  for  vice-pres- 
ident, (^n  the  3d  of  March,  1849,  Mr.  Polk's  eventful 
and  important  administration  terminated,  and  he  soon  after 
returned  to  his  residence  iii  Nashville,  Tennessee.* 


•JJ>.  What  did  Mexico  cede  to  the  Unittnl  States  ?  Descril)o  tho  Lxnindary 
botwcon  Mexico  and  \\\o  ftutod  Stufos  f  M'hat  was  discovonxl  in  Calilbrma  '. 
Wlicn  f     What  h;is  been  tho  rosidt  .' 

-t>.  \\lion  \vi\s  Wisconsin  admitted  into  the  Union  ?  When  was  Oregon 
onH'tcil  into  a  territory  ;  Minesota  .'  What  wixs  the  result  of  tho  pivsi- 
doiuial  election. 

alons:  the  western  line  of  Now  Mexico,  until  it  intersects  the  River  Gila;  thence 
down  tlie  Gila  to  the  Colorado,  and  tlience  in  a  stniight  line  to  tl\e  l\HCitic  Ocean,  at 
a  point  Iluee  miles  south  ot'  San  l)ie»ro. 

*  Janus  Knox  Polk  wns  lH>rn  in  MrcklenburJ:  County.  North  C^vrolma,  Novem- 
ber Cd,  inxi.    His  father  was  an  enterprising  tarmcr.  ajid  thivugh  life  a  firm  aud 


1840.  TAVLORB    AUMINLS'IKATIOX.  279 


TAYLOIi'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

I.  On  tho  5th  of  iVIarch,  1849,  the  inauj^^uration  of  Gen. 
Taylor*  took  place,  and  he  entered  on  the  duties  of  his 
office  as  president  of  the  United  States,  tlis  cabinet  con- 
sisted of  John  M.  Clayton,  of  Delaware,  secretary  of  state ; 
William  M.  Meredith,  of  JVjnsylvani'a,  secretary  of  the 
treasiary  ;  Thomas  Ewinr:^,  of  (Jhio,  secretary  of  the  home 
department ;  Geor;.^e  W.  Crawford," of  Georgia,  secretary  of 
war;  William  B.  Preston,  of  Virginia,  secretary  of  the 
navy ;  Jacob  Collamer,  of  Vermont,  postmaster-general  ; 
and  Ravady  Johnson,  of  Maryland,  attorney-general. 


1.  When  was  Gen.  Taylor  inaugurated  ?    The  4th  of  July  fell  on  Sunday. 


unf]':viat,irij(  fleniocrat.  In  IHOO,  he  removed  with  his  family  often  children,  to  Ten- 
iiewtee,  and  wan  one  of  the  pioiieerH  of  the  fertile  valley  of  Duck  river,  a  branch  of 
the  (lumherland,  t/ien  a  wilrJi  rneHH,  but  n'/in,  the  moHf  populoiisand  flourinhini^  por- 
tion of  the  Hlate.  In  that  region  Mr.  Polk  resided  until  his  election  to  the  presi- 
dency, in  1844.  In  1815^  he  entered  the  University  of  North  Carolina.  His  career 
at  the  University  wa,s  distin/^uished.  It  is  Kaid,  that  he  never  missed  a  recitation, 
nor  omitted  the  jjunctilioiis  performance  of  any  duty.  In  1818,  he  ^rarJuated  with 
the  reputation  of  beina;  the  first  scholar  in  both  the  mathematics  and  classics.  Prom 
the  University  he  returned  to  Tennessee,  and  in  1810  commenced  the  study  of  law 
in  the  office  of  the  Hon.  Feli.v  Grutidy.  He  was  a/lmitted  to  the  bar  in  182iJ,  where 
he  at  once  took  a  distinjjui.shed  po.sifion.  In  ]>i2?j,  he  was  elected  a  repreHentative 
to  the  state  IcKislature,  and  for  two  successive  years  waui  a  member  of  th-at  body.  In 
AujjuHt,  182.0,  he  w;i.s  chosen  to  repre.sent  iiis  district  in  con^res-s.  In  18.'J.5,  he  wa.s 
elected  sjieaker  of  the  house  of  representatives,  and  again  chosen  to  that  station  in 
18;J7.  After  a  service  of  fourteen  years  in  congress,  in  IS^iO.  iMr.  Polk  declined  a  re- 
election, and  was  chosen  governor  of  Tennessee.  In  1844,  he  was  elected  to  the 
presidency.  At  the  close  of  his  administration,  which  forms  a  brilliant  and  event- 
ful period  in  history,  he  retired  to  his  rewdence  in  Tennessee,  where  he  expired  on 
the  l.'jth  of  .lune,  1819.  He  was  ever  a  firm,  undeviating,  democrat,  and  his  pri- 
vate life,  which  had  ever  been  upright  and  (ture,  secured  to  him  the  re.spect  and 
esteem  of  all  who  iiad  the  pleasure  of  his  acquaintance. 

*  Zacliary  Taylor  was  born  in  Orange  county,  Virginia,  Sept.  24,  178'1.  The  fol- 
lowing year,  his  father  removed  to  Kentucky.  In  1808.  he  received  from  President 
Jefferson  a  commission  of  f^r.^t  lieutenant  in  the  7th  regiment  of  United  States  in- 
fantry. On  the  breaking  out  of  the  war  of  1812,  then  a  captai/i,  he  w;i.s  placed  in 
commanrl  of  Fort  Harrison,  on  the  Wabash  river.  The  gallantry  and  bravery  he 
displayed,  in  the  attricks  of  the  Indian.^,  gave  promise  of  the  military  renown 
which  he  afterward  achieved.  In  1'-.I6,  then  major,  he  was  placed  by  President 
Madison,  in  command  of  the  post  of  Green  Bay,  on  Lake  Michigan.  In  18:^2,  he 
was  appointed  colonel  by  President  .lackson,  and  served  (rallantly  unrler  Oen.  Sf^ott 
in  the  black  Hawk  war  of  that  year.  He  sub.sequently  held  the  command  of  Fort 
Crawford,  at  Prairie  du  (Jhien,  where  he  remained  until  l-iJfJ.  He  then  repaired  to 
Florida,  and  took  an  active  nart  i/i  the  Seminole  war,  in  which  harassing  duty  he 
won  a  fiime  only  surpassed  by  that  which  he  won  during  the  Mexican  campaign. 
On  the  '.ilth  of  Dec,  J '^.'{7,  he  fought  the  battle  of  Okee-cho-hee,  in  which  the  In- 
dians were  almost  annihilated,  and  never  atrain  appeared  in  any  considerable  num- 
ber.    In  1838,  lie  was  appointed  to  the  chid  command  of  all  the  trooiJS  in  Florida 


280  HISTORY    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  1850. 

2.  Hon.  John  C.  Calhoun,  a  senator  in  congress  from 
South  CaroHna,  died  at  Washington,  March  31st,  aged  68. 
For  nearly  half  a  century  he  had  been  engaged  in  the  pub- 
lic service,  and  had  exerted  a  powerful  influence  over  the 
policy  of  the  nation.  He  had  filled  almost  every  office  in 
the  gift  of  the  people,  and  performed  the  duties  of  each  with 
ability  and  stern  integrity.  He  was  a  man  of  powerful 
talents  and  of  the  most  unquestionable  probity.  The  high- 
est honors  were  paid  to  his  memory.  On  the  12th  of  May, 
a  large  crevasse,  or  breach,  was  made  in  the  levee,  or  em- 
bankment, of  the  Mississippi,  fourteen  miles  above  New 
Orleans.  For  a  long  time  every  effort  to  close  it  was  in- 
effectual. A  large  extent  of  country  was  overflowed,  and 
1,600  houses  in  New  Orleans  flooded.  On  the  1 7th,  a  ter- 
rible fire  occurred  at  St.  Louis,  by  which  twenty-three  steam- 
boats, with  their  cargoes,  were  destroyed,  and  nearly  fifteen 
blocks  of  buildings  in  the  business  part  of  the  city. 

3.  President  Taylor  having  received  information  that  an 
armed  expedition  was  preparing  to  leave  the  United  States 
for  the  invasion  of  Cuba,  issued  a  proclamation,  on  the  1 1th  of 
August,  for  its  suppression.  Soon  after,  a  large  party,  col- 
lected on  an  island  in  the  Gulf  of  Mexico,  was  dispersed 
by  a  naval  force,  and  the  expedition  prevented.  On  the 
31st  of  August,  a  convention  of  delegates  met  at  Monterey 
for  the  purpose  of  framing  a  state  constitution  for  California, 
preparatory  to  its  admission  into  the  Union. 

4.  The  admission  of  CaUfornia,  and  the  organization  of 

2.  What  distinguished  man  died,  and  where  ?    What  happened  on  the  12th 
of  May  ?     On  the  ITlh  ? 

3.  What  expedition  was  suppressed  ? 

4.  What  gave  rise  to  the  discussion  of  the  slavery  question  ?    When  was 

where  he  remahied  until  April,  1840,  when  he  was  relieved  by  Gen.  Armistead. 
Gen.  Taylor  was  then  appointed  to  the  command  of  the  southwestern  division  of 
the  army,  and,  in  1841,  was  ordered  to  relieve  Gen.  Ai-buclcle,  at  Fort  Gib.^on.  He 
removed  his  family  about  this  time  to  Baton  Rouge,  in  Louisiana,  where  he  had 
purchased  an  estate.  In  1845,  on  the  annexation  of  Texas,  he  was  ordered  to 
place  his  troops  in  such  a  position  as  to  defend  Texas  against  a  threatened  Mexican 
invasion.  In  August  of  that  year,  he  concentrated  his  forces  at  Corpus  Christi.  His 
triumphant  success  in  that  war,  and  subsequent  elevation  to  the  presidency,  have 
already  been  stated.  He  died  in  Washington  city,  July  9,  1850.  He  was  a  brave 
soldier,  an  able  general,  and  a  devoted  patriot. "  His  deatli  was  universally  la- 
mented. 


1850.  Fillmore's  administration.  281 

the  territories  of  New  Mexico  and  Utah,  during  the  session 
of  1849-50,  gave  rise  to  an  animated  and  lengthy  discus- 
sion on  the  subject  of  slavery,  in  both  houses  of  congress. 
One  party  insisted  that  slavery  should  be  prohibited  in  the 
new  states  and  territories,  while  the  other  contended  that 
the  subject  should  be  left  with  the  people  of  each  to  decide 
for  themselves.  The  deepest  interest  was  excited  through- 
out the  country,  and  serious  apprehensions  were  felt  by 
many  for  the  safety  of  the  Union.  On  the  7th  of  September, 
California  was  admitted  as  an  independent  state,  and  terri- 
torial governments  established  over  New  Mexico  and  Utah. 
5.  On  the  9th  of  July,  1850,  Gen.  Taylor,  after  a  short 
illness,  expired  at  Washington.  This  mournful  event  deeply 
aifected  the  whole  nation  ;  for  he  was  regarded  by  all  as 
a  brave  and  able  general,  an  upright  statesman,  and  an 
honorable  man.  The  chief  characteristics  of  his  adminis- 
tration were  the  desire  to  cultivate  peaceful  and  friendly  re- 
lations with  foreign  powers,  so  far  as  was  consistent  with 
national  honor  and  dignity,  and  to  maintain  the  union  and 
prosperity  of  the  states  at  home.  Hon.  Millard  Fillmore 
now  became  president  of  the  United  States. 


FILLMORE'S  ADMINISTRATION. 

1.  On  the  10th  of  July,  1850,  Mr.  Fillmore*  was  inaugu^ 
rated,  and  entered  on  the  duties  of  his  office  as  president  of 


California  admitted  into  the  Union  ?    Wiien  were  New  Mexico  and  Utah 
erected  into  territorial  governments  ? 

5.  When  did  Gen.  Taylor  expire  ?  What  can  you  tell  of  his  life  ?  See 
note. 

*  Millard  Fillmore  was  born  at  Summer  Hill,  Cayuga  county,  New  York,  Jan. 
7th,  1800.  His  father  was  a  farmer,  in  quite  moderate  circumstances,  and  unable  to 
give  his  son  more  than  a  limited  common-school  education.  Wlien  he  was  fifteen,  he 
was  sent  to  learn  the  trade  of  clothier,  at  which  he  worked  for  four  years,  improv- 
ing  all  his  spare  time  in  reading  books  from  a  httle  library  in  the  village  where  he 
lived.    At  the  age  of  nineteen,  Judge  Woods,  of  Cayuga  county,  detected  the  latent 

24* 


282  HISTORY    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  1850. 

the  United  Stales.  The  followmg*  oflicers  in  the  executive 
department  of  the  government,  constituted  his  cabinet,  viz. ; 

SAI.AKY. 

Daniel  Webster,  -  -  •  -  Massachusetts.,  -  Secretary  of  State,  -  -  -  eti.OOO 

Thomas  Corwin,    -  •  -  Ohio. Sec.  of  the  Treasury,  ■  tV^Xt 

Charles  M.  Conrad.  -  -  Louisiana.    -  -  -  Secretary  of  War,  -  -  •  6.lHK.t 

Wilham  A.  Grahani,   -  Nortli  Carolina,  Secretary  of  the  Navy,  6.lX1i1 

A.  H.  H.  Stuart.    •  -  -  Virginia. Sec.  of  the  Interior.  -  -  6,iXX> 

Nathan  K.  Hall,  -  -  -  -  New  York,  -  -  -  Postmaster-General,-  -  6.(XX> 

John  J.  Crittenden,  -  -  Kentucky,    -  -  -  Attorney -General,  -  •  -  4,000 

2.  Congress,  after  one  of  the  longest,  most  arduous,  and 
stirring  sessions,  adjourned  on  the  30th  of  September. 
Among  the  numerous  acts  of  the  session,  the  most  impor- 
tant were  those  for  the  admission  of  Cahfornia.  the  organi- 
zation of  the  temtories  of  New  Mexico  and  Utah,  the  es- 
tabhshment  of  the  boundary  of  Texas,  and  the  suppression 
of  the  shwe  trade  in  the  District  of  Cohimbia — termed  the 
compromise  measures — and  the  fugitive  slave  bill.  These 
produced,  for  several  months,  the  most  intense  feehng  in  con- 
gress and  throughout  the  Union. 

3.  The  second  session  of  the  thirt3'-tirst  congress  com- 
menced on  Monday,  Dec.  '2d,  1850.  The  message  of  the 
president  was  a  sound  and  able  document,  and  was  gen- 
erally approved  by  all  parties.  His  views  of  the  veto 
power,  of  incidental  protection,  and  his  approval  of  the 
compromise  measures  of  the  former  session,  and  his  expressed 
determination  to  uphold  and  execute  the  fugitive  slave  law, 
met  the  general  approbation  of  both  whigs  and  democrats. 

talents  of  the  youn?  man.  and  induced  him  to  study  law.  He  took  him  into  his 
olfice,  where  lie  remained  two  years,  studying  with  that  industry  and  perseverance 
which  have  distincuished  him  tnrousrh  Hte.  During  this  time,  however,  he  lauirht 
school  in  the  winter  months,  in  order  to  provide  for  his  expenses  as  far  as  possible. 
In  IS22.  he  entertnl  a  law  office  at  ButTalo.  and  passed  a  year  studying  and  teaching, 
when  he  w.is  admitted  to  thebiu\  and  removed  to  Aurora  to  commence  the  practice 
of  his  profession.  In  lJ5:2t).  he  married  Miss  Powers,  the  daughter  of  Rev.  Lemuel 
Powers,  He  spent  several  vears  in  diligent  judicial  studies,  and  in  the  limited  legal 
practice  of  a  country  town.  In  1^29,  he  was  elected  to  the  assembly,  in  New  York,  and 
lor  three  yeai's  heK^  a  seat  in  that  body.  While  there,  he  took  a  prominent  and  in- 
Hueutial  part,  and  was  remarkable  for  his  devotion  and  unwearied  industry  to  his 
duties.  In  the  mean  time,  he  removed  to  Butlalo.  In  L"vVJ.  he  was  elected  a  mem- 
ber of  congress,  and  was  subsequently  re-elected  several  times.  During  his  con- 
gressional cai-eer^he  manifested  the  same  industry,  ability,  and  efficient  practical 
talent  that  had  belore  distinpiished  him.  lu  1S44,  lie  was  fun  by  the  whigs  of  New 
York  for  governor,  and,  in  1S47,  was  elected  comptroller  of  the  state.  He  held  that 
office  until  his  elevation  to  the  vice-presideucv,  in  1S49.  From  this  brief  sketch  it 
will  be  seen  that  Mr.  Fillmore  tuis  irradually  risen,  by  his  own  talents  and  untiring 
industry,  from  a  humble  station  incite,  to  an  office  higher  and  more  honorable  than 
that  of  kin^  or  emperor.  What  a  lesson  is  here  taught  to  the  young  men  of  our 
great  aud  glorious  republic. 


CONSTITUTION* 

OF    THE 

UNITED  STATES  OF  AMERICA. 


Wb  the  people  of  the  United  States,  in  order  to  fomi]  Year,  so  that  one-third  may  be  chosen  every  second 
a  more  perfect  Union,  e^ttablish  Justice,  insure  Year;  and  if  Vacancies  happen  by  Resig^nation,  or 
domestic  Tranquillity,  provide  for  the  common  I  otherwise,  during  the  Recess  of  the  Legislature  of 
defence,  promote  the  general  Welfare,  and  securefany  State,  the  Executive  thereof  mav  make  tempo- 
the  Blessings  of  Liberty  to  ourselves  and  ourirary  Appointments  until  the  next  Meeting  of  the 
Posterity,  do  ordain  and  establish  this  CONSTITO  I LeKislalure,  which  shall  then  hll  such  Vacancies. 
TioN  for  the  United  States  of  America.  i     No    Person    shall    be   a   Senator   who  shall  not 

have  attained  to  the  Age  of  thirty  Years,  and  been 

ARTICLE    I.  |nine  Years  a  citizen  of  the  United  States,  and  who 

ishall  not, -when  elected,  be  an  Inhabitant  of  that 

Section.  1.   All  legislative  Powers  herein  granted  State  for  which  he  shall  be  chosen. 

shall  be  vested  in  a  Congress  of  the^  United  States,!     The  Vice  President  of  the  United  States  shall  be 

which  shall  consist  of  a  Senate  and.  House  of  Rep-  President  of  the  Senate,  but  shall  have  no  Vote, 

resentatives.  | unless  they  be  ernially  divided. 

Skction.  2.  The  House  of  Representatives  shall  i  The  Senate  shall  chuse  their  other  OfiBcers,  and 
be  composed  of  Members  chosen  every  second  Ycarjalso  a  President  pro  tempore,  in  the  Absence  of  the 
by  the  People  of  the  several  States,  and  the  Elec-  Vice  President,  or  wheniie  shall  exercise  the  Office 
tors  in  each  State  shall  have  the  Qualifications! of  President  ot  the  United  States, 
requisite  for  Electors  of  the  most  numerous  Branch |  The  Senate  shall  have  the  sole  Power  to  try  all 
of  the  State  Legislature.  I  Impeachments.    When    sitting  for  that   Purpose, 

No  person  shall  be  a  Representative  who  shall 'they  shall  be  on  Oath  or  Affirmation.  When  the 
not  have  attained  to  the  age  of  twentyfive  Years, Ipresident  of  the  United  States  is  tried,  the  Chief 
and  been  seven  Years  a  Citizen  of  ihe  United  States,  Justice  shall  preside:  And  no  Person  shall  be  con- 
and  who  shall  not,  when  elected,  be  an  Inhabitant]  victed  without  the  Concurrence  of  two  thirds  of 
of  that  State  in  which  he  shall  be  chosen.  the  Members  present. 

ICf^prcseutatives  and  direct  Taxes  shall  be  appor-|  Judgnaent  in  Cases  of  Impeachment  shall  not  ex- 
tioned  among  the  several  States  which  may  be  in- 1  tend  further  than  to  removal  from  Office,  and  Dis- 
cluded  within  this  Union,  according  to  their  resoec-Uiiialitication  to  hold  and  enjov  any  Office  of  honour, 
tive  Numbers,  which  shall  be  determined  l)y  adding  Trust  or  Profit  under  the  United  States:  but  the 
to  the  whole  Number  of  free  Persons,  including  Party  convicted  shall  nevertheless  be  liable  and 
those  bound  to  Service  for  a  Term  of  Years,  and  subject  to  Ii^dictment,  Trial,  Judgment  and  Punish- 
excluding    Indians  not  taxed,    three   fifths  of  all|ment,  accordingto  Law. 

other  Persons.  The  actual  Enumeration  shall  be  I  Section.  4.  The  Times,  Places  and  Manner  of 
made  within  three  Years  after  the  first  Meeting  of  holding  Elections  for  Senators  and  Representatives, 
the  Congress  of  the  United  States,  and  witnin  shall  be  prescribed  in  each  State  by  the  Legislature 
every  subsequent  Term  of  ten  Years,  in  such  Man-  thereof;  but  the  Congress  may  at  any  time  by  Law 
ner  as  they  shall  by  Law  direct.  The  Number  of  make  or  alter  such  Regulations,  except  as  to  the 
Representatives  shall   not    exceed  one  for    every  places  of  chusing  Senators. 

thirty  Thousand,  but  each  State  shall  have  at  Least  The  Congress  shall  assemble  at  least  once  in  every- 
one Representative  ;  and  until  such  enumeration  Year^  and  such  Meeting  shall  be  on  the  first  Mon- 
shall  be  made,  the  Stale  of  New  Hampshire  shall  day  in  December,  unless  they  shall  by  Law  appoint 
be  entitled   to  chuse   three,   Massachusetts  eight,  a  different  Day. 

Rhode-Island  and  Providence  Plantations  one,;  Skction.  5.  Each  House  shall  be  the  Judge  of 
Connecticut  five,  New-York  six.  New  Jersey  four,  the  Elections,  Returns  and  Qualifications  of  its 
Pennsylvania  eight,  Delaware  one,  Maryland  six,  own  Members,  and  a  Majority  of  each  shall  consti- 
Virginia  ten.  North  Carolina  five,  South  Carolina 'tute  a  Quorum  to  do  Business ;  but  a  smaller  Num- 
five,  and  Georgia  three.  ber   m;iy  adjourn   from   day   to   day,   and   may  be 

When  vacancies  happen  in  the  Representation 'authorized  to  compel  the  Attendance  of  absent 
from  any  State,  the  Executive  Authority  thereof  Members,  in  such  Manner,  and  under  such  Penal- 
shall  issue  Writs  of  Election  to  fill  such  Vacancies,  ties  as  each  House  may  provide. 

The  House  of  Representatives  shall  chuse  their  Each  House  may  determine  the  Rules  of  its  Pro- 
Speaker  and  other  Officers;  and  shall  have  the  sole  ceedings,  punish  its  Members  for  disorderly  Be- 
Power  of  Impeachment.  haviour,  and.  with  the  Concurrence  of  two  thirds. 

Section.  3.    The    Senate  of  the  United   States  expel  a  Memner. 
shall  be  composed  of  two  Senators  from  each  State,      Each  House  shall  keep  a  Journal  of  its  Proceed- 
chosen  by  the   Legislature  thereof,  for  six  Years  ;  ings,  and  from  time  to  time  publish  the  same,  ex- 
aud  each  Senator  shall  have  one  Vote.  cepting  such  Parts  as  may  in  their  Judgment  re- 

Immediately  after  they  shall  be  assembled  in  quire  .Secrecy  ;  and  the  Yeas  and  Nays  of  the  Mem- 
Consequence  of  the  first  Election,  they  shall  be  di-  bers  of  cither  House  on  any  question  shall,  at  the 
vided  as  equally  as  may  be  into  three  Classes.  The  Desire  of  one  fifth  of  those  Present,  be  entered  oa 
Seats  of  the  Senators  of  the  first  Class  shall  be  va-  the  Journal. 

cated  at  the  Expiration  of  the  second  Year,  of  the  Neither  House,  during  the  Session  of  Congress, 
second  Class  at  the  Expiration  of  the  fourth  Year,  shall,  without  the  Consent  of  the  other,  adjourn 
and  of  the  third  Class  at  the  Expiration  ol  the  sixth  for  more  than  three  days,  nor  to  any  other  Place 

*  Our  readers  may  depend  upon  the  accuracy  of  the  text  of  the  Constitution  of  the  United  States,  here- 
•with  presented.  It  is  copied  from  a  printed  Constitution,  to  which  is  attached  a  certificate  from  the 
Department  of  State,  under  the  official  seal,  attesting  that  "the  Constitution  and  Amendments  Ua» 
been  critically  compared  with  the  original,  and  found  to  be  correct  in  text.  Utter,  audi»uncItt«lW/J." 


284 


CONSTITUTION. 


than  that  in  which  the  two  Houses  shall  be  sittin;^.  I    To  constitute  Tribunals  inferior  to  the  mpreme 

Section.  6.    The  Senators  and  Representatives  [Court; 
shall  receive  a  Compensation  for  their  Services,  to      To  define  and  punish  Piracies  and  Felonies  com- 
be ascertained  bv  Law,  and  paid  out  of  the  Treas-  mitted  on  the  high  Seas,  and  Offences  against  the 
ury  of  the  United  States.     They  shall  in  :ill  C;ise>-.  Law  of  Nations  ; 

except  Treason,  Felony  and  Breach  of  the  Pi.ice.  To  declare  AVar,  grant  Letters  of  Marque  and 
be  privileged  from  Arrest  during  their  Atu-nlair-c  Reprisal,  and  make  Rules  concerning  Captures  on 
at  the  Session  of  their  respective  Houses,  and  in  Land  and  Water; 

foing  to  and  returning  from  the  same  ;  and  for  any      To  raise  and  support  Armies,  but  no  Appropria- 
peech  or  Debate  in  either  House,  they  shall  not  be  (ion  of  Money  to  that  Use  shall  be  for  a  longer 
questioned  in  any  other  Place.  Term  than  two  Years  ; 

No  Senator  or  Representative  shall,  during  the      To  provide  and  maintain  a  Navy  ; 
Time  for  which  he  was  elected,  be  appointed  to      To  make  Rules  for  the  Government  and  ReguU- 
any  civil  Office  under  the  Authority  of^the  United  tion  of  the  land  and  naval  Forces; 
States,  which  shall  have  been  created,  or  the  Emol       To  provide  for  calling  forth  the  Militia  to  execute 
xmients  whereof  shall  have  been  encreascd  during  the  Laws  of  the  Union,  suppress  Insurrections  and 
such  time ;  and  no  Person  holding  any  Otfice  under  repel  Invasions  ; 

the  United  States,  shall  be  a  Member  of  cither|  To  provide  for  organizing,  arming,  and  disci- 
House  during  his  continuance  in  Otlice.  plining,  the  Militia,  and  for  governing  such  Part  of 

Skctiox.  7.  All  bills  for  raising  Revenue  shall  them  as  may  be  employed  m  the  Service  of  the 
originate  in  the  House  of  Representatives ;  but  the  United  States,  reservmg  to  the  States  respectively, 
Seufttc  may  propose  or  concur  w-ith  Amendments  the  Appointment  of  the  Officers,  and  the  Authority 
as  on  other  Bills.  of  traming  the  ^lilitia  according  to  the  Discipline 

Every  Bill  which  shall  have  passed  the  House  of  prescribed  by  Congress  ; 
Representatives  and  the  Senate,  shall,  before  it  be- '  To  exercise  exclusive  Legislation  in  all  Cases 
come  a  Law,  be  presented  to  the  President  of  the  whatsoever,  over  such  District  (not  exceeding  ten 
United  States ;  It  he  approve  he  shall  sign  it,  but  Miles  square)  as  may,  by  Cession  of  particular 
if  not  he  shall  return  it,  with  his  Objections  to  that  States,  and  the  Acceptance  of  Congress,  become 
House  in  which  it  shall  have  originated,  who  shall  the  Seat  of  the  Government  of  the  United  Stales, 
enter  the  objections  at  large  on  their  Journal,  and  and  to  exercise  like  Authority  over  all  Places  jjur- 
proceed  to  reconsider  it.  If  after  such  Reconsider-  chased  by  the  Consent  of  the  Legislature  ol  the 
ation  two  thirds  of  that  House  shall  agree  to  pass  State  in  which  the  Same  shall  be,  (or  the  Erection 
the  Bill,  it  shall  be  sent,  together  with  the  Objec-  of  Forts,  Magazines,  Arsenals,  Dock-Yards,  and 
tious,  to  the  other  House,  by  which  it  shall  like-  other  needful  buildings ;-- And 
wise  be  reconsidered,  and  if  approved  by  two  To  make  all  Laws  which  shall  be  necess.<uy  and 
thirds  of  that  House,  it  shall  become  a  La*.  But  proper  for  carrying  into  Execution  the  foregoing 
in  all  such  Cases  the  Votes  of  both  Houses  shall  be  Powers,  and  all  other  Powers  vested  by  this  Con- 
determined  by  yeas  and  Nays,  and  the  Names  of  stitution  in  the  Government  of  the  United  States, 
the  Persons  voting  for  and  against  the  Bill  shall  be  or  in  any  Department  or  Officer  thereof, 
entered  on  the  Journal  of  each  House  respectively.  Section.  9.  The  Migration  or  Importation  of 
If  any  BiU  shall  not  be  returned  by  the  President  such  Persons  as  any  of  the  States  now  existing  shall 
■within  ten  Days  (Sundays  excepted)  after  it  shall  think  proper  to  admit,  shall  not  be  prohibited  by 
have  been  presented  to  him,  the  Same  shall  be  a  the  Congress  prior  to  the  Year  one  thousand  eight 
law,  in  like  Manner  as  if  he  had  signed  it,  iml ess  hundred  and  eight,  but  a  Tax  or  Duty  may  be  im- 
the  Congress  by  their  Adjournment  prevent  its  Re-  postd  on  such  Importation,  not  exceeding  ten  dol- 
tum,  in  which  Case  it  shall  not  be  a  Law.  lars  for  each  Person. 

Every  Order,  Resolution,  or  Vote  to  which  the  The  Privilege  of  the  Writ  of  Habeas  Corpus  shall 
Concurrence  of  the  Senate  and  House  of  Represent-  not  be  suspended,  unless  -when  in  Cases  of  Re- 
atives  may  be  necessary  (except  on  a  question  of  bell  ion  or  Invasion  tlie  public  Safety  may  require 
Adioiirnmentl  shall  be  presented  to   tlie  President  it. 

States  ;  and  before  the  Same  shall     No  Bill  of  Attainder  or  ex  post  facto  Law  shall 


take  Effect,  shall  be  ap 


be  passed. 


le  approved  by  hii    . 
approved  by  him,  shall  be  repassed  by  two  thirds  of     No  Capitation,  or  other  direct,  Tax  shall  be  laid. 


him,  or  being  dis- 


tne  Senate  and  House  of  RepresentativeSj  according 
to  the  Rules  and  Limitations  prescribed  in  the  Case 
of  a  Bill. 

Section.  8.    The  Congress  shall  have  Power 

To  lay  and  collect  Taxes,  Duties,  Imposts  and 
Excises,  to  pay  the  Debts  and  provide  for  the  com- 
mon Defence  and  general  Welfare  of  the  United 
Sutes:  but  all  Duties,  Imposts  and  Excises  shall 
be  unifonn  throughout  the  United  States  ; 

To  borrow  Money  on  the  credit  of  the  United 
States ; 

To  regulate  Commerce  with  foreign  Nations,  and 


unless  in  Proportion  to  the  Census  or  EuumeratioD 
herein  before  directed  to  be  taken. 

No  Tax  or  Duty  shall  be  laid  on  Articles  exported 
from  any  State. 

No  Preference  shall  be  given  by  any  Regulation 
of  Commerce  or  Revenue  to  the  Ports  of  one  State 
over  those  of  another :  nor  shall  Vessels  bound  to, 
or  from^  one  State,  be  obliged  to  enter,  clear,  or  pay 
Duties  in  another. 

No  money  shall  be  drawn  from  the  Treasury,  but 
in  Consequence  of  Appropriations  made  by  Law  ; 
and  a  regular  Statement  and  Account  of  the  Re- 


among  the  several  States,   and  with  the  Indian  ceipts  and  Expenditures  of  all  public  Money  shall 


Tribes 

To  establish  an  uniform  Rule  of  Naturalization, 
and  uniform  Laws  on  the  subject  of  Bankruptcies 
throughout  the  United  States ; 

To  coin  Money,  regulate  the  Value  thereof,  and 
of  foreign  Coin,  and  fix  the  Standar(l  of  Weights 
and  Measures : 

To  provide  for  the  Punishment  of  counterfeiting 
the  securities  and  current  coin  of  the  United  States  ; 

To  establish  Post  Offices  and  post  Roads  ; 

To  promote  the  progress  of  Science  and  use- 
ful Arts,  by  securing  for  limited  Times  to  Authors 
and  Inventors  the  exclusive  Right  to  their  respec- 
tive Writings  and  Discoveries ; 


be  published  from  time  to  lime. 

No  Title  of  Nobility  shall  be  granted  by  the 
United  States:  And  no  Person  holding  any  Office 
of  Profit  or  Trust  under  them,  shall,  without  the 
Consent  of  the  Congress,  accept  of  any  present. 
Emolument,  Office,  or  Title,  of  any  kind  whatever, 
from  any  King,  Prince,  or  foreign  State. 

Section.  10.  No  State  shall  enter  into  any  Treaty, 
Alliance,  or  Confederation  ;  grant  Letters  of  Manque 
and  Reprisal :  coin  INIoney  ;  emit  Bills  of  Credit ; 
make  any  Thhi";  but  gold  and  silver  Coin  a  Tender 
in  Payment  of  Debts^;  pass  any  Bill  of  Attainder, 
ex  post  facto  Law,  or  Law  impairing  the  Obliga- 
tion of  Contracts,  or  grant  any  Title  of  Nobility. 


CONSTITUTION. 


285 


No  State  ^all,  without  the  consent  of  the  Con) 
gress,  lay  any  Imposts  or  Duties  on  Imports  or  Ex-' 
ports,  except  what  may  be  absolutely  necessary  fori 
executing  it's  inspection  Laws:  and  the  net  Pro-; 
duce  of  all  Duties  and  Imposts,  laid  by  any  State 
on  Imports  or  Exports,  shall  be  for  the  Use  of  the 
Treasury  of  the  United  States;  and  all  such  Laws 
shall  be  subject  to  the  Kevision  and  Controul  of  the 
Congress.  I 

No  State  shall,  without  the  Consent  of  Congress, 
W  any  Duty  of  Tonnage,  keep  Troops,  or  Ships  ofi 
War  in  time  of  Peace,  enter  into  any  AgreementI 
or  Compact  with  anotner  State,  or  with  a  foreign 
Power,  or  engage  in  War.  unless  actually  invaded,] 
or  in  such  imminent  Danger  as  will  not  admit  of 
Delay.  j 

ARTICLE.  II.  I 

Skctiow.  1.  The  executive  Power  shall  be  vested 
in  a  President  of  the  United  States  of  America. 
He  shall  hold  his  Office  during  the  Term  of  four' 
Years,  and,  together  with  the  Vice  President,  cho-j 
sen  for  the  same  Tenn,  be  elected,  as  follows 

Each  State  shall  appoint,  in  such  Manner  as  the 
Legislature  thereof  may  direct,  a  Number  of  Eleci 
tors,  equal  to  the  whole  Number  of  Senators  and 
Representatives  to  which  the  State  may  be  entitled; 
in  the  Congress :  but  no  Senator  or  Representative,; 
or  Person  holding  an  Office  of  Trust  or  Profit  under 
the  United  States,  shall  be  appointed  an  Elector. 

[•  The  Electors  shall  meet  in  the-r  respective 
States,  and  vote  by  Ballot  for  two  Persons, of  whom 
one  at  least  shall  not  be  an  Inhabitant  of  the  same 
State  with  themselves.  A  nd  they  shall  make  a  List 
of  all  the  Persons  voted  for,  and  of  the  Number  of 
Votes  for  each ;  which  List  they  shall  sign  and  cer- 
tify, and  transmit  sealed  to  the  Seat  of  the  Govern- 
ment of  the  United  States,  directed  to  the  President 
of  the  Senate.  The  President  of  the  Senate  shall,  in 
the  Presence  of  the  Senate  and  House  of  Represent- 
atives, open  all  the  Certificates,  and  the  Votes  shall 
then  be  counted.  The  Person  having  the  greatest 
Number  of  Votes  shall  be  the  President,  if  such 
Number  be  aMajority  of  the  whole  Number  of  Elec- 
tors appointed  ;  and  if  there  be  more  than  one  who 
have  such  Majority,  and  have  an  equal  Number  of 
Votes,  then  the  House  of  Representatives  shall  ira 
mediately  chuseby  Ballot  one  of  them  for  President , 
and  if  no  Person  have  a  Majority,  then  from  the  five 
highest  on  the  List  the  said  House  shall  in  like 
Manner  chuse  the  President.  But  in  chusing  the 
President,  the  Votes  shall  be  taken  by  States,  the 
Representation  from  each  State  having  one  Vote ; 
A  Quorum  for  this  Purpose  shall  consist  of  a  Mem- 
ber or  Members  from  twothirdsof  the  States,  and  a 
Majority  of  all  the  States  shall  be  necessary  to  a 
Choice.  In  every  Case,  after  the  Choice  of  the 
President,  the  Person  having  the  greatest  Number 
of  Votes  of  the  Electors  shafl  be  the  Vice  President. 
But  if  there  should  remain  two  or  more  who  have 
equal  Votes,  the  Senate  shall  chuse  from  them  by  I 
Ballot  the  Vice  President.]  ; 

The  Congress  may  determine  the  Time  of  chusing 
the  Electors,  and  the  Day  on  which  they  shall  give 
their  Votes  ;  which  Day  shall  be  the  same  through- i 
out  the  United  States.  j 

No  Person  except  a  natural  bom  Citizen,  or  a 
Citizen  of  the  United  States,  at  the  time  of  the 
Adoption  of  this  Constitution,  shall  be  eligible  to 
the  Office  of  President ;  neither  shall  any  Person  be 
eligible  to  that  Office  who  shall  not  have  attained  to 
the  Age  of  thirty  (ive  Years,  and  been  fourteen 
Years  a  Resident  within  the  United  States. 

In  Case  of  the  Removal  of  the  President  from 
Office,  or  of  his  Death,  Resignation,  or  Inability  to 
discharge  the  Powers  and  Duties  of  the  said  Office, 


*  This  clause  within  brackets  has  been  superceded 
and  annulled  by  the  12th  amendment,  oo  page  585.' 


the  same  shall  devolve  on  the  Vice  Pre«idei>t,aiid  th* 
Congress  may  by  Law  provide  for  the  Case  of  Re- 
moval, Death,  Resignation,  or  inability,  both  of 
the  President  and  Vice  President,  declaring  what 
Officer  shall  then  act  as  President,  and  such  Officer 
shall  act  accordingly,  until  the  Disability  be  re- 
moved, or  a  President  shall  be  elected. 

The  President  shall,  at  stated  Times,  receive  for 
his  Services,  a  Compensation,  which  shall  neither 
be  encreased  nor  diminished  during  the  Period  for 
which  he  shall  have  been  elected,  and  he  shall  not 
receive  within  that  Period  any  other  Emolument 
from  the  United  States,  or  any  of  them. 

Before  he  enter  on  the  Execution  of  his  Office,  he 
shall  take  the  following  Oath  or  Affirmation  — 

"  I  do  solemnly  swear  (or  affirm)  that  I  will  faith- 
"  fully  execute  the  Office  of  President  of  the  United 
"States,  and  will,  to  the  best  of  my  Ability,  pre- 
"  serve,  prbtect  and  defend  the  Constitution  of  the 
"United  States. 

Section.  2.  The  President  shall  be  Commander 
in  Chief  of  the  Army  and  Navy  of  the  United 
States,  and  of  the  Militia  of  the  several  States. 
when  called  into  the  actual  Service  of  the  United 
States;  he  may  require  the  Opinion,  in  writing,  of 
the  principal  Officer  in  each  of  the  executive  De- 
partments, upon  any  Subject  relating  to  the  Duties 
of  their  respective  Offices,  and  he  shall  have  Power 
to  grant  Reprieves  and  Pardons  for  Offences  against 
the  United  States,  except  in  Cases  of  Impeachment. 

He  shall  have  Power,  by  and  with  the  Advice 
and  Consent  of  the  Senate,  to  make  Treaties,  pro- 
vided two  thirds  of  the  Senators  present  concur; 
and  he  shall  nominate,  and  by  and  with  the  Advice 
and  Consent  of  the  Senate,  shall  appoint  Ambassa- 
dors, other  public  Ministers  and  Consuls,  Judges  of 
the  supreme  Court,  and  all  other  Officers  of  the 
United  States,  whose  Appointments  are  not  hereia 
otherwise  provided  for,  and  which  shall  be  estab- 
lished by  Law :  but  the  Congress  may  by  Law  vest 
the  Appointment  of  such  inferior  Officers,  as  they 
think  proper,  in  the  President  alone,  in  the  Courts 
of  Law,  or  in  the  Heads  of  Departments. 

The  President  shall  have  Power  to  fill  up  all  Va- 
cancies that  may  happen  during  the  Recess  of  the 
Senate,  by  granting  Commissions  which  shall  ex- 
pire at  the  End  of  their  next  Session. 

Section.  3.  He  shall  from  time  to  time  give  to 
the  Congress  Information  of  the  State  of  the  Union, 
and  recommend  to  their  Consideration  su»h  Mea- 
sures as  he  shall  judge  necessary  and  expedient ;  he 
may,  on  extraordinary  Occasions,  convene  both 
Houses,  or  either  of  them,  and  in  Case  of  Disagree- 
ment between  them,  with  Respect  to  the  Time  of 
Adjournment,  he  may  adjourn  them  to  such  Time 
as  he  shall  think  proper;  he  shall  receive  Ambassa- 
dors and  other  public  Ministers  ;  he  shall  take  Care 
that  the  Laws  be  faithfully  executed,  and  shall 
Commission  all  the  officers  of  the  United  States. 

Section.  4.  The  President,  Vice  President  and 
all  civil  Officers  of  the  United  States,  shall  be  re- 
moved from  Office  on  Impeachment  for,  and  Con- 
viction of.  Treason,  Bribery,  or  other  high  Crimes 
and  Misdemeanors. 

ARTICLE  III. 

Section.  1.  The  judicial  Power  of  the  United 
States,  shall  be  vested  in  one  supreme  Court,  and  in 
such  inferior  Courts  as  the  Congress  may  from  time 
to  time  ordain  and  establish.  The  Judges,  both  of 
the  supreme  and  inferior  Courts,  shall  hold  their 
Offices  during  good  Behavior,  and  shall,  at  stated 
Times,  receive  for  their  Services,  a  Compensation, 
which  shall  not  be  diminished  during  their  Contin- 
uance in  Office. 

Section.  2.  The  judicial  Power  shall  extend  to 
all  Cases,  in  Law  and  Equity,  arising  under  this 
Constitution,  the  Laws  of  the  United  States,  and 
Treaties  maae,  or  which  shall  be  made,  under  their 


2S6 


coxsTnxniON. 


Authoritr;  — to  »n  C«s*s  affvctins  AinbmssMlors,  tion  of  two  or  luorr  9utt^,  or  Parts  ofSUtes,  with- 
othfr  (<uNic  MiuistvK  ami  Consuls;-  to  all  C*>tfs  of  out  the  Constant  of  Ihe  l.fcisUturvs  of  the  St«te» 
mdtuiraltv  ami  luaruim*  Jurisulictiou ;— to  t'ontro  couofrx>t\l  as  well  *s  of  «he  Conitivss. 
versiifs  to  which  the  Vuitisl  Slatrs  shall  be  a  The  ConRtx^  shall  have  IVwer  to  aisiuAse  of  aud 
Party  ;-to  Coutrv'versies  betweeu  two  or  w>ore  make  all  ninslful  Rules  aiul  Keyulatioui  r«S|>eeliue 
States;— bet wwu  a  !!tate  auj  Cititens  of  another  the  Territory  or  other  l^»i>erty  b«lv>n«iug  to  the 
State;— WtwtHU  Oiti«eus  of  ilittVrtut  States.-  Vnitevl  States;  aiul  nothius  »>  «his  Coustitution 
between  Citiieiis  of  the  same  State  olaxuunc  l.aniU  shall  be  so  coiistrtieil  as  to  iVeiuaioe  auv  Claims  of 
untler  lirants  of  aitfereut  States,  ami  betwtnn  a  the  Cnitt\l  States,  or  of  ar.y  i>&rtioular  jState. 
Stat*,  or  the  Citiseus  therw^f.  ami  foreiju  States,  Ss<-no>.  -1.  The  VuiteU  States  sh^ll  imarautee 
Citiaeus  or  Subjects.  to  every  State  in  this  Cuion  a  ReiniMuan  Korm  of 

In  all  Cases  affecting  Ambassavlors.  other  public  Uovernment.  ami  shall  i>voteot  Mchof  tbeni  a^aiust 
Ministers  ami  Consuls,  aua  those  ui  which  a  State  Invasion;  aua  on   Appheatiou  of  the  Lcsisraliirw, 
•hall  b<- Party ,  the  suvrrme  Court  shall  have  orijfi    or  of  the  Eveeutive  iwheu  the  l.esislature  cannot 
Bal  Jurisaictiou.    In  all  the  other  Cases  before  men-  be  conveuea)  against  aomestic  Violence, 
tiouevl,  the  sui>reme  Court  shall  have  appellate  Ju- , 
risaiction.  both   as  to   Law   ana   Fact,  with  such'  \RTICLE.    V. 

p;S„;^;:r';{^^L^ry^;;-'^  i^c^-^a?^^i  "=-:S.o'r  c:^s?si:?;;r.^'Jh/^;^ 

K>  hai  "u\he  ^Ute  where  "the  Vi     Cr^n  ?1  s^^     '■'*"^'"  ^"  «'*^  Legislatures  of  two  th.rvls  of  the  sev 
have'lteuJommln^i:  C  when*  no.  IZmit'tt!}  ^."^>.?V^^;'^'.=:'^*'ir*"  *  ^;->-;-"  «•"■:^VT^•^-^"^ 


?i^^^'^^c";J^St!:r\^^::!:^?rl::;;r^  ;^':ii''in^n^amr';:!:;^|::s;;:rp^:.f'v;::s  const.. 

*Kcru«   V  l^^^u  ?^^L  tutuMu  wlun  rat.fiea  Vy  the  Lcc.sla.ur.-s  of  .h«ss 

shaU  /o  i^i^t  oulv  in  WvlSt  \\^^^  '■^'"'■"^*  ^^''  '^"^  *'"^"^'^-J  States,  .xr  Vy  Cwxveutions  iu 

unless  on  the  Testimony  of  two  Witnesses  to  the  ^iT'^'rlh    v     r     ,  ^     .   h,  ^Ll.  .,H 

same  overt  Act.  or  on  Cvuifession  m  open  Court.         ''f'^,^,  "^s  '^''^  'f  <V         .  '«•    .  V.f  rt.l    ..  7>„,r.h 

Ctpt  auriUK  the  Life  of  the  Person  attaintcU.  ,P«»>  *^i  «>«  »«»  t\"*l  M.rtrajce  m  the  ^euate. 

ARTICLE.    IV.  ;  ARTICLE.    VI. 

SiscTiox.  I.  Full  Eaith  auj  Cr^Hlit  shall  be  ?iven  ^.W  IVbts  coutracte.1  ami  En^-aiirtfmeuts  eutered 
in  each  Statt-  to  the  public  Acts.  K«-corvU.  ami"  iuai-  ">'*^'  »^<or\'  the  AJoption  ol  this  Constitution,  shall 
cial  Proce.\lini:s  of  everv  other  State.  Aua  the  Con  ^«  »=•"  valid  ajamst  the  luitt\l  Stales  umler  this  Con- 
gress may  by  senervU  Laws  prescribe  the  Manner  iu  stitutiou.  as  uiuler  the  Conttxlcration. 
-which  such'Acts,  Reconls  ami  Proct-e^liiiss  shall  Iw  This  t  wisiitutiou.  aua  the  Laws  ot  the  Vnitcjl 
proved,  ami  the  Elfeet  thereof.  '  States  which  shall  be  luade  in  Pursuance  there\if; 

Skctiox.  2.  The  Citiaeiis  of  each  State  shall  be  »»^*  *•'  Treaties  uiaae.  or  which  shall  be  maae,  un- 
entitled to  all  Privdegt-s  ana  Inimuuities  of  Citi«ens*lt"<^  the  .luthority  of  the  Cniti\l  States,  shall  be  the 
iu  the  several  States.  supr«-me  Law  of  the  Laml ;  aua  the  Jmlsx-s  in  every 

A  Person  charsevl  iu  any  State  with  Treasvxn.  ^'*»<^  s'>»ll  ^'«"  bouna  thereby,  any  Thmc  iu  the 
Felony,  or  other  Crime,  w  ho  shall  llee  from  Justice.  Constitution  or  Laws  oi  any  State  to  the  t.  outrary 
ana  l^  fouua  in  another  State,  shall  on  Demand  ol'  uotwithstauainic-  ^  ^ 

the  executive  Authority  of  the  State  from  which  ^  "'"  t'lnators  .^nd  Representatives  before  men- 
he  tlevi,  be  adivered  up,"  to  be  removt\l  to  the  State  tione^l,  and  the  Memliers  of  the  several  !«>tate  Legis- 
haviue  Jurisaictiou  of  the  Crime.  latures,  aiul  all  executive  ana  judicial  Otncens,  l>oth 

No  Person  held  to  Service  or  Labour  iuoae  State,  of  the  United  States  and  of  the  several  States^  shall 
wuder  the  Laws  therev^f,  escapinsc  into  another.  *>*'  bouml  by  Oath  or  Atfinnatiou.  to  sui>port  this 
shall,  in  Consequence  ixf  .^ny  Law  or  Regulation  Constitution;  but  no  reliarious  Test  shall  ever  be 
therein,  be  dischars:evl  from  such  Service  or  labour,  iv^uirtxl  as  a  Qualiticatiou  to  any  Oflice  or  public 
but  shall  be  adiverea  up  on  Claim  of  the  Party  to  Tfwst  uuaer  the  United  States, 
■whom  suc-h  Service  or  L.^bour  may  be  due.  I  4  WTirr  f     vit 

^KCTlO.■«.  3.    New  Mates  may  I'e  adniitttxl  by  the'  ^'^  '  ^'^  ^^-    *  "• 

Cous:re>-s  into  this  Union  ;  but  uo  new  State  shall  bt-  The  Ratification  ^a"  the  Conventions  of  nine  States, 
fvimievi  or  erev-t»\l  within  the  Jurisdiction  of  any  shall  be  suflicieiit  for  the  Establishment  of  this  Cou- 
othex  State;  uor  any  State  be  form«.\l  by  the  June-  stitutwu  beiweeu  the  Stales  so  ralifyiug  the  Same. 


AMENDMENTS 

TO    THB 

OONSTITUtlON  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES. 

(ARTICLE  I.)  [ to  assemble,  ana  to  petition  the    Government  for  a 

Consress  shs.ll  make  no  law  respecting  .in  estab  1^"^^""^  "^^  grievances, 
lishment  of  religion,  or  prohibiting  the  free  exer-|  ,  iPTirr  v  if  \ 

cse  thereof ;  or  abriaging  the  freevlom  of  speech,  or  ( AK  l  it.  i^  u.) 

01  the  press  ;  or  the  right  of  the  people  peaceably  I     A  well  regulatctl  Militia.  Wing  necessary  to  the 


CONSTITUTION.  2Sl 

ht'jr.iinty  of  a  fre<;  f?Ut«,  th«  Hrlit  '/f  tb«  per^U  to'rii^tt,  thai)  aot  b«  fmttmtd  to  din>y  <7r  dimance 
ke«i»  and  l>«sir  Aruu,  »hall  not  ?>«;  iufriujed.  otnen  teWmtii  bjr  tib«  people. 

(AHTICI.E  III.,  I  f ARTICLE  X.) 

No  RrjJdiCT  ihall,  in  time  of  peac*  be  m«rtered  in  I  The  powm  not  delegated  to  the  United  6Ut«  br 
any  b//.i»e,  without  the  cmwit  of  the  Owner,  unr  the  Con»tituti»/n,  nor  prohibited  by  it  to  th»  Sutei 
Mj  time  of  war,  but  in  a  maniier  t/;  be  pre»eribfcd  by  are  reserved  to  the  SUtw  rtipectiTely,  or  t9  Se 
liw.  pe</ple. 

(ARTICLE  IV.)  I  (ARTICLE  XI.j 

TTm:  riyht  of  tb*  (je'jple  t/>  be  »ec»jre  in  their  per  I     The  Jtidicial  power  of  the  L'ujted  Statei  ihall  not 

fitiM,  hoii«e*,  paper*,  and  effecti,  ai^aiiut  uiireanon-  ibe  coiMtrued  to  ext«rnd  V>  any  iuit  m  law  or  eouity, 

able  »earcb»f  and  »ejzijr<fli^«ha)l  not 'be  violated,  and  comuieuced  or  protecuted  againist  one  of  the  United 

no  Warrajjtii  shall  i*»ue,  but  upon  probable  caue*,  Statei  by  Citizens  of  another  State,  or  by  Citizens 


supported  by  Oath  or  affirmation,  and  particularly 
de»';ribirij;  the  f<la/;«  to  l>e  tearched,  ap4  the  penons 
or  things  f*  be  seized. 

(ARTICLE  V.) 


or  gul/jecU  of  any  KoreiKn  6Ute. 

(ARTICLE  XII.) 
The  Elector!  ihall  meet  in  tlieir respective  state*, 
and  role  by  billot  for  President  and  Vice  President, 
^  I.  If  V    L  . .  .  V  -x  .        Wie  of  wh/jm,  at  leaif,  ihall  not  f^  an  inhabitant  ^ 

No  person  shall  beheld  to  anrwerfor  a  capital, or  the  same  rrtate  with  themtelve!  ;  tb«-y  shall  name 
otherwise  inf=imo<i)i  crime,  unlesi  on  a  presentment  j„  their  ballots  the  perf^u  voted  for  as  President, 
or  in/lictment  of  a  Grand  Jury,  except  i"  cases  and  in  distinct  Ulloti  the  pers'ju  votol  for  as  Vice- 
aruiing  In  the  larul  or  naval  forcM.or  in  the  Militia,  President,  and  they  shall  make  distinct  lisU  of  all 
when  in  actual  s«;rvice  in  time  of  War  or  puhlic  person,  voted  for  at  President,  and  of  all  person* 
danger :   nor  shall   any  pencjn  be  subjext  /';'•   the  voted  for  as  Vice-Pretident,  and  of  the  number  of 


le,  nnerty,  or  property,  witnout  lue  procen  ol  of  the  Senate  ;-The  President  of  the  Senate  shalL 
iw  ;  nor  nhall  private  property  be  Uketi  lor  public  in  presence  of  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representa^ 
ujse,  without  just  compensation.  Itives,  open  all  the  certificates  and  the  vot*s  shall 

then  Ije  ciunt^d ;— The  person  bavin);  the  greatest 

fARTTfri''  VI  \  inumberof  votes  for  President,  shall   be  the  Presi- 

'  'dent,  if  such  num>>er  be  a  majority  of  the  whole 

In  all  criminal  proseoi.tions,  the  accused  shall  en-  number  of  Electors  appointed;    and  if  no  person 

joy  the  rif^ht  to  a  speedy  and  public  trial,  by  an  have  such  majority,  then  from  the  persons  Eavin|^ 

impartial  jury  of  the  State  and  di«tri';t  wherein  the  the  highest  numbeni  not  exceeding  uiree  on  the  list 

crime  shall  nave  been  committed^   which   district  of  those  voted  for  as  Preoident.  the  House  of  Rep - 

shall  have  been  previously  ascertaine/1  by  law,  and  resentatives  shall  choose  immediately,  by  ballot,  the 

to  be  informed  of  the  nature  and  cause  of  the  accu-  President.    But  in  choosing  the  President,  the  votes 

sation  ;  to  be  confronted  with  the  witnesses  againt t  shall  be  taken  by  states,  the  representation  from 

him;    f>  have   ConipuUory  process   for  obtaining  each  eUt*;  having  one  vote;  a  r^uorum  for  thisnur- 

Witnesses  in  his  favour,  and  to  have  the  Assistance  pose  shall  consist  of  a  member  or  members  from 

of  Counsel  for  his  defence.  two-thirds  of  the  states,  and  a  majority  of  all  the 

! states  shall  be  necessary  to  a  choice.     And  if  the 

I  ATtfirt  V  VTT  \  I  House  of  Representatives  shall  not  choose  a  Presi- 

(AKllCJ.J'-  VII.)  i^^„t  whenever  the  right  of  choice  shall  devolve 

In  Suits  at  common  law,  where  the  value  in  con-  "P'J"  them,  before  the  fourth  day  of  March  next 

troversy  shall  exceed  twenty  dollars,  the  right  of ''jUowing,   then    the   Vice-President    shall    act  as 

trial  l>y  jury  >!hall  \»t  preserved,  and  no  fact  tried  by  President,  as  in  the  case  of  the  death  or  other  con- 

a  jury  shall  be  otherwise  re-examined  in  any  Court  Btitutional  disability  of  the  President.    The  person 

of  the  Unit<-d  States,  than  according  to  the  rules  of  having  the  greatest  number  of  votes  as  Vice-Presi- 

the  common  law.  dent,  shall  be  the  Vice-President,  if  such  number 

[be  a  majority  of  the  whole  number  of  Electors  ap- 
/  »  orr-iz-r  r.  irtir  |  pointed,  and  if  no  person  have  a  majority,  then  from 

(ARTICLE  Vm.)  the  two  highest   numbers  on    the   list,  the  Senate 

] number  shall  be  necessary  to  a  choice.    But  no  per. 
r  ARTiri  F.  IX  i  ^"^  constitutionally  ineligible  to  the  office  of  Presi- 

'  '  dent  shall  be  eligible  to  that  of  Vice-President  of 

The  enumeration  in  the  Constitution,  of  certain  the  United  States. 


SETTLEMENT  OF  TPIE  STATES. 


States. 

Date. 

Towns. 

Nation. 

1.  Florida 

1565 

St.  Augustine 

Spanish  . 

2.  Virginia  . 

. 

1607 

Jamestown 

English        . 

3.  New  York    . 

1614 

Albany  .... 

Dutch     . 

4.  Massachusetts 

1620 

Plymouth    . 

English 

5.  N.  Hampshire 

1623 

Dover     .... 

English  . 

6.  New  Jersey, 

1624 

Bergen 

Danes . 

7.  Delaware 

1627 

Cape  Henlopen 

Swedes  and  Finns 

8.  Maine       . 

1630 

York   ... 

English 

9.  Connecticut. 

1633 

Windsor 

English  . 

10.  Maryland 

1634 

St.  Mary's  . 

English 

11.  Rhode  Island 

1636 

Providence 

Roger  Williams 

12.  N.  Carolina 

1650 

Albemarle   . 

English 

13.  Missouri 

1663 

St.  Genevieve 

French   . 

14.  S.  Carolina 

1670 

Port  Royal  . 

English 

15.  Michigan 

1670 

Detroit    .... 

French    . 

16.  Pennsylvania 

1682 

Philadelphia 

William  Penn     , 

17.  Arkansas 

1685 

Arkansas 

French    . 

18.  Illinois      . 

1686 

Kaskaskia  . 

French 

19.  Wisconsin     . 

1690 

Green  Bay 

French    . 

20.  Texas 

1692 

San  Antonia  de  Bexar 

Spanish 

21.  Indiana 

1694 

Vincennes 

French    . 

22.  Louisiana 

1699 

Ibberville    , 

French 

23.  Alabama       . 

1703 

Mobile    .... 

Spanish  . 

24.  Mississippi 

1716 

Natchez 

French 

25.  Vermont       . 

1724 

Fort  Dummer 

English  . 

26.  Georgia    . 

1733 

Savannah    . 

English 

27.  Tennessee     . 

1765 

Nashville 

English  . 

28.  California 

1769 

Los  Angelos 

Spanish 

20.  Kentucky      . 

1775 

Boonsboro'     . 

Daniel  Boone , 

30.  Ohio       '. 

1788 

Marietta      . 

Emigrants  frm  N.  England! 

31.  Iowa     . 

1820 

Dubuque 

Emigrants  from  111 

nois I 

THE  PRINCIPAL  BATTLES  OF  THE  REVOLUTION. 


Battles. 

State 

Date. 

£i. 

loss. 

Battles. 

State 

»«.. 

B. 

loss. 

A. 
loss. 

Lexington.     .    . 
Bunker  Hill,.    . 

Mass 

April  19, 

1775 

88 

Fort  Mercer, .     . 

N.J. 

Nov.   18, 

1777 

500 

3? 

" 

June    17, 

177.-; 

1054 

450 

Monmouth,    .     . 

" 

June   28, 

1778 

400 

200 

Long  Island,  .    . 

N.  V. 

Aug.   12, 

1776 

400 

2000 

Rhode  Island,    . 

K.I. 

Aue.  28. 

260 

210 

White  Plains,    . 

" 

Oct.    28, 

1776 

HOO 

.'iOO 

Brier  Creek,  .    . 

Geo.  [March  3, 

1779 

23 

4.';o 

Fort  Washington 

Nov.  16, 

1776 

1000 

2868 

Stony  Point,  .    . 

N.Y.[JuIy    15 

1779 

600 

100 

Trenton,    .    .    . 

N.J. 

Dec.   26, 

1776 

1020 

4 

Savannah,      .     . 

Geo.    Oct.      9 

1779 

130 

1000 

Princeton, .    .    • 

" 

Jan.      3, 

1777 

400 

ino 

Canuleu,     .     .     . 

S.C.I  Aug.  16, 

1780 

325 

1000 

Hubbardton,  .    . 

Ver. 

July,    7, 

1777 

200 

800 

King's  Mountain, 

N.C.Oct.      7 

1780 

n.-iO 

20 

Bennington,  .    . 

" 

Aug.   16, 

1777 

«00 

100 

Cowpens,  .    .    . 
Guilford,  C.  H., 

S.C.   Jan.    17 

1781 

800 

72 

Brandy  wine,      . 

Del. 

Sept.  11, 

17/7 

600 

1000 

N.  CI  Mar.   15, 

1781 

fiOO 

400 

Stillwater,     .    . 

N.Y. 

Sept.  19, 

1777 

600 

300 

Hobkii-k's  HiU,  . 

S.C.  1  April  25, 

I7HI 

8.50 

250 

German  town,    . 

Penn 

Oct.      4' 

'1777 

500 

1200 

Eutaw  Springs, . 

"      Sept.    8, 

1781 

700 

700 

Saratoga,   .    .    . 

N.Y. 

Oct.      7, 

1777 

400 

80 

Yorktown,t    .     . 

Va.      Oct.     19; 

1781 

7000 

Saratoga,*      .    . 

" 

Oct.     17, 

1777  5791 1     00 

Surrender  of  Burgoync  and  bis  aiuiy. 


t  Surrender  of  Cornwallis  and  his  army. 


SETTLEMENT  OF  THE  STATES. 


Stales. 

Date. 

Towns. 

Nation.                    1 

1.  Florida 

1565 

St.  Augustine 

Spanish  . 

.  1 

2.  Virginia  . 

1607 

Jamestown 

English        .        . 

3.  New  York    . 

1614 

Albany  .... 

Dutch     . 

4.  Massachusetts 

1020 

Plymouth    . 

English 

5.  N.  Hampshire 

1623 

Dover     .... 

English  . 

6.  New  Jersey, 

IG24 

Bergen 

Danes . 

7.  Delaware 

1627 

Cape  Henlopen 

Swedes  and  Finns 

a.  Maine       . 

1630 

York   .... 

English 

9.  Connecticut . 

1633 

Windsor 

English  . 

10.  Maryland 

1634 

St.  Mary's  . 

English 

11.  Rhode  Island 

1636 

Providence      . 

Roger  Williams 

12.  N.  Carolina 

1650 

Albemarle  . 

English 

13.  Missouri 

1663 

St.  Genevieve 

French   . 

14.  S.  Carolina 

1670 

Port  Royal  . 

English        . 

15.  Michigan 

1670 

Detroit    .... 

French    . 

16.  Pennsylvania 

1682 

Philadelphia 

William  Penn     . 

17.  Arkansas 

1685 

Arkansas 

French    . 

18.  Illinois 

1686 

Kaskaskia  . 

French 

19.  Wisconsin     . 

1690 

Green  Bay 

French    . 

20.  Texas 

1692 

San  Antonia  de  Bexar 

Spanish 

21.  Indiana 

1694 

Vincennes 

French    . 

22.  Louisiana 

1699 

Ibberville    . 

French 

23.  Alabama       . 

1703 

Mobile    .... 

Spanish  . 

24.  Mississippi 

1716 

Natchez 

French 

25.  Vermont 

1724 

Fort  Dummer 

English  . 

26.  Georgia    , 

1733 

Savannah    . 

English 

27.  Tennessee     . 

1765 

Nashville 

English  . 

28.  California 

1769 

Los  Angelos 

Spanish 

20.  Kentucky      . 

1775 

Boonsboro' 

Daniel  Boone . 

30.  Ohio       ". 

1788 

Marietta      . 

Emigrants  frm  N.  England 

31.  Iowa     . 

1820 

Dubuque 

Emigrants  from  Illinois 

THE  PRINCIPAL  BATTLES  OF  THE  REVOLUTION. 


Battla. 

State 
Mass 

Date 

B. 

lots. 

I73 

88 

Battles. 

State         Date. 

B. 

loss. 

J. 
lots. 

Lexington,     .    . 
Bunker  Hill,.    . 

April  19, 

\-75 

Fort  Mercer, .     . 

N.J.  'Nov.   18, 

1777 

.500 

32 

"., 

June    17, 

177.') 

lO-S-J 

4.50 

Monmouth,    .     . 

"      June   28, 

1778 

400 

200 

Lone  Island,  .    . 

N.V. 

Aug.  12, 

1776 

4on 

2000 

Rhode  Island,    . 

R.I.    Aug.  28, 

1778 

260 

210 

White  Plains,    . 

" 

Oct.     2S. 

1776 

300 

.'lOO 

Brier  Creek,  .    . 

Geo.    March  3 

1779 

23 

4.50 

Fort  Washington 

" 

Nov.   16, 

1776 

1000 

2S68 

^  Stony  Point,  .    . 

N.  ¥.  July    15 

1779 

600 

100 

Trenton,    .    .    . 

N.J. 

Dec.   2t5, 

1776 

1020 

4 

(Savannah,       .    . 

Geo.    Oct.      9, 

1779 

m 

1000 

Princeton, .     .     . 

" 

Jan.       3^ 

1777 

40() 

100 

1  Camden,    .    .    . 

S.C.    Aug.   16, 

17H0 

325 

1000 

Hubbardton,  .     . 

Ver. 

July,     7, 

1777 

2(X) 

800 

1  King's  Mountain, 

N.  C.  Oct.      7, 

I7«0 

11,50 

an 

Bennington,  .    . 

«< 

Aug.   16, 

1777 

BOO 

100 

1  Cowpens,  .    .    . 

S.C.    Jan.     17, 

1781 

800 

72 

Braudywine,      . 

Del. 

Sept.  11, 

.MHI 

1000 

1  Guilford,  C.  H., 

N.C.Mar.   15, 

1781 

fiOO 

400 

Stillwater,     .    . 

N.  V. 

Sept.  19, 

600 

300 

:  Hobkirk's  Hill,  . 

S.C.    AprU25, 

1781 

250 

250 

Germantown,     . 

Penn 

Oct.      4, 

1777 

5(H) 

1200 

Eutaw  Springs, . 

"      Sept.    8 

1781 

700 

700 

Saratoga,   .    .    . 

N.Y. 

Oct.      :, 

1777    400 

SO 

'Yorktown,t    .    . 

Va.     [Oct.     19' 

1781 

7000 

Saratoga,*      .    . 

" 

Oct.    17, 

1777  5791 

00 

1 

'        J 

Surrender  of  Burgoyuc  and  bis  army. 


Surrender  of  Comwallis  and  his  array.